Featured – GCTNhttp://gctnetwork.com
The Great Commission Transmission Network - Equipping And Encouraging Christians Through Video And Audio PodcastsTue, 15 Aug 2017 09:55:52 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.8.1This is the compendium feed which gathers all the podcasts offered by the Great Commission Transmission Network. To subscribe to specific shows only please search them or visit gctnework.com for a full list.GCTNetworkGCTNetworkgctradio@gmail.comgctradio@gmail.com (GCTNetwork)Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported LicenseThe Great Commission Transmission Network - Equipping And Encouraging Christians Through Video And Audio PodcastsFeatured – GCTNhttp://gctnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/GCTN-Logo-144x144.jpghttp://gctnetwork.com/category/featured/
Many Meetings Pt. 2, The Lord Of The Rings | SFP019http://gctnetwork.com/many-meetings-pt-2/
http://gctnetwork.com/many-meetings-pt-2/#respondTue, 15 Aug 2017 09:55:52 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4440Frodo finds himself refreshed after hearing Gandalf’s telling of the events at the Ford of Bruinen. He now has a mind for food and drink, and Sam, Pippin, and Merry are happy to lead their beloved Frodo to the tables of Elrond. Join us as we continue reading though The Lord Of The Rings, Book […]

Frodo finds himself refreshed after hearing Gandalf’s telling of the events at the Ford of Bruinen. He now has a mind for food and drink, and Sam, Pippin, and Merry are happy to lead their beloved Frodo to the tables of Elrond. Join us as we continue reading though The Lord Of The Rings, Book II, Chapter 1, Many Meetings.

A Dwarf Of Important Appearance

As Frodo makes his way to his table in the hall he is met with a view of Elrond with Glorfindel and Gandalf sitting on either side. In his eyes they were revealed as lords of dignity and power. At Frodo’s table on his right sat a dwarf of important appearance, richly dressed. It was none other than Glóin, one of the twelve companions of the great Thorin Oakenshield.

‘Welcome and well met!’ said the dwarf, turning towards him. Then he actually rose from his seat and bowed. ‘Glóin at your service,’ he said, and bowed still lower.

A Friend Long Missed

No matter the conversation at hand Frodo finds that his talk returns ever to Bilbo. Glóin sees this too, for he smiled at him and said, “You were very fond of Bilbo, were you not?” Frodo replies that he would rather see Bilbo than all the towers and palaces in the world.

After the feast the company followed Elrond and Arwen into the Hall of Fire where the minstrels began to make sweet music. A small figure sitting on a stool at the end of the hall was speaking with Elrond, who motioned for Frodo. “The hour you have wished for has come,” he said. And with that the dark figure raised its head and uncovered its face.

‘Bilbo!’ cried Frodo with sudden recognition, and he sprang forward. ‘Hullo, Frodo my lad!’ said Bilbo. ‘So you have got here at last. I hoped you would manage it. Well, well! So all this feasting is in your honour, I hear. I hope you enjoyed yourself?’

Ibid., p. 230

What stood out to you in Many Meetings? Let us know in the comments below.

On The Secret Fire Podcast we travel chapter-by-chapter and book-by-book through J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth viewing it through Christian lenses. We invite you to join us each week as we continue the adventure on the Arkenstone server in Lord Of The Rings Online.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/many-meetings-pt-2/feed/0Frodo finds himself refreshed after hearing Gandalf’s telling of the events at the Ford of Bruinen. He now has a mind for food and drink, and Sam, Pippin, and Merry are happy to lead their beloved Frodo to the tables of Elrond.Frodo finds himself refreshed after hearing Gandalf’s telling of the events at the Ford of Bruinen. He now has a mind for food and drink, and Sam, Pippin, and Merry are happy to lead their beloved Frodo to the tables of Elrond. Join us as we continue reading though The Lord Of The Rings, Book […]GCTNetwork1:07:17Space, Time, and Godhttp://gctnetwork.com/space-time-and-god/
http://gctnetwork.com/space-time-and-god/#respondFri, 11 Aug 2017 13:35:02 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4435Today we look at the scientific possibilities of multiple dimensions in space and time and how that might affect our view of heaven and eternity. Space, Time, and God Today we want to examine the implications of our concept of different dimensions of space and time. Specifically, we’d like to examine the concept of time […]

Today we look at the scientific possibilities of multiple dimensions in space and time and how that might affect our view of heaven and eternity.

Space, Time, and God

Today we want to examine the implications of our concept of different dimensions of space and time. Specifically, we’d like to examine the concept of time as a dimension and how God’s realm exists outside of our concept of time.

1) What do we mean by dimensions? We start by examining the dimensions we can observe and move in. What is 1 dimensional, 2 dimensional, 3 dimensional, etc.?
2) What if Einstein was correct in his assessment that time is a 4th dimension linked to the physical properties of our current 3-dimensional space? How would this affect our understanding of those outside of it being able to freely move through it? How does that appear to those of us who can’t? And are there any examples of this type of movement given in scripture?
3) Finally, if we grasp time as just another dimension of this reality, how does that impact our personal view of atonement, heaven, and eternity?

Sure this topic is merely theoretical, but it could have to philosophical impacts on how we even view of our sins in our daily life as immediately impacting Jesus on the cross. Thus bringing the weight of it to light.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/space-time-and-god/feed/0Today we look at the scientific possibilities of multiple dimensions in space and time and how that might affect our view of heaven and eternity. Space, Time, and God Today we want to examine the implications of our concept of different dimensions of s...Today we look at the scientific possibilities of multiple dimensions in space and time and how that might affect our view of heaven and eternity.GCTNetwork1:17:53Many Meetings Pt. 1, The Lord Of The Rings | SFP018http://gctnetwork.com/many-meetings-pt-1/
http://gctnetwork.com/many-meetings-pt-1/#respondTue, 08 Aug 2017 09:55:29 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4432Four days after Frodo crossed the Ford of Bruinen he awoke in the Last Homely House cured of his wound by Elrond Half-elven. It is October 24th, informs a familiar voice. Gandalf! This is the first of many meetings in this house with many dwelling places. Join us for Book II, Chapter 1 of The […]

Four days after Frodo crossed the Ford of Bruinen he awoke in the Last Homely House cured of his wound by Elrond Half-elven. It is October 24th, informs a familiar voice. Gandalf! This is the first of many meetings in this house with many dwelling places. Join us for Book II, Chapter 1 of The Fellowship of the Ring.

Many Meetings

Ever since the attack at Weathertop Strider has been encouraging the hobbits to have faith, persevere, and hope for the tables of Elrond’s house. As the danger rose help came in the Elf-lord, Glorfindel. Frodo lost consciousness after passing through the waters of the river Bruinen but awoke to a voice he had long desired to hear. Gandalf was here in the Last Homely House, and Frodo found the promised comfort. But more comfort will come with feasting and many meetings!

Merely to be there was a cure for weariness, fear, and sadness. – LotR, p. 224

Many Dwellings

Frodo was now safe in the Last Homely House east of the Sea. It was not only from Strider that he had heard about the rest afforded here; Bilbo had recounted his own experiences in that house on his adventure to Erebor.

That house was, as Bilbo had long ago reported, ‘a perfect house, whether you like food or sleep or story-telling or singing, or just sitting and thinking best, or a pleasant mixture of them all’.

The Lord of the Rings, Many Meetings, p. 224

And we see echoes of another house with many dwelling places. Consider these words of Jesus which he used to comfort the apostles in the upper room:

John 14:1-2 NRSV

Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?

These words and Strider’s own sound alike. But, then, they are both kings, after all.

What stood out to you in the chapter, MANY MEETINGS? Let us know in the comments below.

On The Secret Fire Podcast we travel chapter-by-chapter and book-by-book through J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth viewing it through Christian lenses. We invite you to join us each week as we continue the adventure on the Arkenstone server in Lord Of The Rings Online.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/many-meetings-pt-1/feed/0Four days after Frodo crossed the Ford of Bruinen he awoke in the Last Homely House cured of his wound by Elrond Half-elven. It is October 24th, informs a familiar voice. Gandalf! This is the first of many meetings in this house with many dwelling plac...Four days after Frodo crossed the Ford of Bruinen he awoke in the Last Homely House cured of his wound by Elrond Half-elven. It is October 24th, informs a familiar voice. Gandalf! This is the first of many meetings in this house with many dwelling places. Join us for Book II, Chapter 1 of The […]GCTNetwork1:08:21Resting in Godhttp://gctnetwork.com/resting-in-god/
http://gctnetwork.com/resting-in-god/#respondWed, 02 Aug 2017 11:33:08 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4424What is the actual meaning of the Sabbath? Today we look at how God wants rest with us and how we find rest in Him. Resting in God There always seems to be room for Christians to debate the Sabbath and how closely we should be adhering to this command. Our goal in this study […]

What is the actual meaning of the Sabbath? Today we look at how God wants rest with us and how we find rest in Him.

Resting in God

There always seems to be room for Christians to debate the Sabbath and how closely we should be adhering to this command. Our goal in this study is not argue for or against Sabbatarianism, but to instead bring clarity to understanding what the command is all about and why it is important to God.

We will begin with the creation to examine how Sabbath was established and follow through with the ten commandments. The reason for the command at this point echoes the seventh day of creation. But what was the point of a seventh day in creation? We discuss the number seven and its meaning. We also speculate on how God actually rested and what He rested from.

This will introduce the concept of rest and what finding rest is all about and how we long for rest but fight against it. Later in the Law the command of the Sabbath is reiterated but a new reason for it used. In Deuteronomy 5, the reason for Sabbath is explained to be a remembrance of their deliverance from Egypt. This gives us more insight into the purpose and how deliverance is actually a form of rest.

When the Children of Israel were wandering in the wilderness they were seeking rest and deliverance in the promise of the entering Canaan. God however forbade them to enter into that rest because of their unbelief. We will examine how unbelief prevents rest and see how King David ties this to the Israelites in the desert. Then we see another reason for the Sabbath was to be a sign of Israel’s sanctification… which leads us to how we get sanctified… in Jesus.

Finally, we discuss how Jesus provides rest unto our souls and how he fulfills Gods desire for our rest with Him. The writer of Hebrews then ties these threads together by quoting the words of King David in reference to both rest from the wilderness, Sabbath, and Jesus.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/resting-in-god/feed/0What is the actual meaning of the Sabbath? Today we look at how God wants rest with us and how we find rest in Him. Resting in God There always seems to be room for Christians to debate the Sabbath and how closely we should be adhering to this command....What is the actual meaning of the Sabbath? Today we look at how God wants rest with us and how we find rest in Him.GCTNetwork1:26:05Our Favorite Worship Songshttp://gctnetwork.com/our-favorite-worship-songs/
http://gctnetwork.com/our-favorite-worship-songs/#respondTue, 25 Jul 2017 13:01:15 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4420Today we choose our favorite worship and praise songs and discuss why we love them. Our Favorite Worship Songs In this episode we basically just geek out over our favorite contemporary worship songs. It’s been a while since we did a top ten type of list. Hopefully we won’t get in as much trouble as […]

Our Favorite Worship Songs

In this episode we basically just geek out over our favorite contemporary worship songs. It’s been a while since we did a top ten type of list. Hopefully we won’t get in as much trouble as we did when we did this for hymns.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/our-favorite-worship-songs/feed/0Today we choose our favorite worship and praise songs and discuss why we love them. Our Favorite Worship Songs In this episode we basically just geek out over our favorite contemporary worship songs. It’s been a while since we did a top ten type of lis...Today we choose our favorite worship and praise songs and discuss why we love them.GCTNetwork1:47:06Flight To The Ford Pt. 2, The Lord Of The Rings | SFP017http://gctnetwork.com/flight-to-the-ford-pt-2/
http://gctnetwork.com/flight-to-the-ford-pt-2/#commentsTue, 25 Jul 2017 09:55:06 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4416Finding Bilbo’s famed stoned trolls provided the hobbits a brief respite from the terror of the Black Riders. Getting back to their flight to the ford of Bruinen they meet the Elf-lord Glorfindel who gives Frodo his horse to bear him swiftly to Rivendell. Join us for an adventure as we continue chapter twelve of […]

Finding Bilbo’s famed stoned trolls provided the hobbits a brief respite from the terror of the Black Riders. Getting back to their flight to the ford of Bruinen they meet the Elf-lord Glorfindel who gives Frodo his horse to bear him swiftly to Rivendell. Join us for an adventure as we continue chapter twelve of The Lord of the Rings.

Flight To The Ford Of Bruinen

After examining the hobbit’s wound Glorfindel, disquieted and anxious, placed Frodo upon his horse.

His pace is light and smooth; and if danger presses too near, he will bear you away with a speed that even the black steeds of the enemy cannot rival.

The Lord Of The Rings, Flight To The Ford, p. 210

Suddenly the horse’s speed and resolve was put to the test, for the Black Riders were upon Frodo. The pursuit led all the way to the Ford of Bruinen. As Frodo was crossing the Loudwater he felt that he was being commanded to halt. The Riders had a power over him. Just as they were crossing to capture their prey – a eucatastrophe! A wall of water – white foam as flames on its crest with riders and horses frothing amid it all – carried away the Black Riders.

Through The Loudwater

One cannot help but be reminded of the Red Sea crossing as recorded in Exodus chapter fourteen. Perhaps J.R.R. Tolkien himself was drawing inspiration from the account when crafting Frodo’s dramatic flight to the Ford. The parting of the waters, the salvation of the Hebrews, and the defeat of the Egyptian army echoes throughout the entirety of scripture. The children of Israel are reminded over and over to recall the battle that God fought on their behalf and for their redemption.

Psalms 106:10-11 NASB

So He saved them from the hand of the one who hated them,And redeemed them from the hand of the enemy.The waters covered their adversaries;Not one of them was left.

In like manner the waves crashing down upon the Black Riders was a miraculous event. We are eager to discover more about who or what was behind it all. Join us as we continue the adventure!

What stood out to you in the FLIGHT TO THE FORD? Let us know in the comments below.

On The Secret Fire Podcast we travel chapter-by-chapter and book-by-book through J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth viewing it through Christian lenses. We invite you to join us each week as we continue the adventure on the Arkenstone server in Lord Of The Rings Online.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/flight-to-the-ford-pt-2/feed/1Finding Bilbo’s famed stoned trolls provided the hobbits a brief respite from the terror of the Black Riders. Getting back to their flight to the ford of Bruinen they meet the Elf-lord Glorfindel who gives Frodo his horse to bear him swiftly to Rivende...Finding Bilbo’s famed stoned trolls provided the hobbits a brief respite from the terror of the Black Riders. Getting back to their flight to the ford of Bruinen they meet the Elf-lord Glorfindel who gives Frodo his horse to bear him swiftly to Rivendell. Join us for an adventure as we continue chapter twelve of […]GCTNetwork1:20:46Flight To The Ford Pt. 1, The Lord Of The Rings | SFP016http://gctnetwork.com/flight-to-the-ford-pt-1/
http://gctnetwork.com/flight-to-the-ford-pt-1/#respondTue, 11 Jul 2017 10:05:51 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4409Frodo has been wounded by the Black Riders at Weathertop and the journey to Rivendell is full of despair, grief, and regret. But the discovery of the stone trolls revives the spirits of the company resulting in song. Join us for a discussion of The Lord of the Rings chapter 12, Flight to the Ford. […]

Frodo has been wounded by the Black Riders at Weathertop and the journey to Rivendell is full of despair, grief, and regret. But the discovery of the stone trolls revives the spirits of the company resulting in song. Join us for a discussion of The Lord of the Rings chapter 12, Flight to the Ford.

Flight To The Ford

In the aftermath of the attack on Frodo the other hobbits are so overjoyed to hear him speak that they took a while to even attempt to answer his question: “Where is the pale king?” They had seen nothing but vague shadowy shapes. Now, at the bidding of Strider, they must move quickly. It was of utmost importance that they get Frodo to Rivendell. Thus began the flight to the Ford of Bruinen – the crossing of the Loudwater River to Imladris and the healing abilities of Elrond Half-elven.

Three Stone Trolls

The journey was fraught with anxiety. Frodo regretted his foolishness in putting on the ring; Sam despaired over his master’s deadly wound; the new country they were venturing into seemed threatening and unfriendly; and all the while they feared that the Black Riders were about to reappear. It was then that they happened upon the stone trolls and a reminder of Bilbo’s first successful adventure on his unexpected journey some sixty years ago. At such a time at this the natural thing to do is to share some prose, tale, or song. And that is what they do thanks to Samwise Gamgee.

Psalms, Hymns, And Spiritual Songs

Story and song have played an important part in the lives of people for many thousands of years. With these history is told and remembered, spirits are lifted, truths are shared, and community is built. They are especially helpful in times of hardship and persecution because they bond peoples together into an even tighter fellowship.
This reminds of of what the apostle Paul wrote to the believers in Colossae:

Colossians 3:16 NETLet the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and exhorting one another with all wisdom, singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, all with grace in your hearts to God.

What stood out to you in Flight To The Ford? Let us know in the comments below.

On The Secret Fire Podcast we travel chapter-by-chapter and book-by-book through J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth viewing it through Christian lenses. We invite you to join us each week as we continue the adventure on the Arkenstone server in Lord Of The Rings Online.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/flight-to-the-ford-pt-1/feed/0Frodo has been wounded by the Black Riders at Weathertop and the journey to Rivendell is full of despair, grief, and regret. But the discovery of the stone trolls revives the spirits of the company resulting in song.Frodo has been wounded by the Black Riders at Weathertop and the journey to Rivendell is full of despair, grief, and regret. But the discovery of the stone trolls revives the spirits of the company resulting in song. Join us for a discussion of The Lord of the Rings chapter 12, Flight to the Ford. […]GCTNetworkThe Mysterious Covenanthttp://gctnetwork.com/the-mysterious-covenant/
http://gctnetwork.com/the-mysterious-covenant/#respondSat, 08 Jul 2017 17:44:21 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4403What is covenant? What is the mystery in the covenant of Abraham? Today we talk about the New Testament revelation of the mystery in that covenant. The Mysterious Covenant Key passage: Deuteronomy 29:9-18 What is a covenant? Verse 12-13 shows us a covenant is personally possessive by both parties but it’s made through a legal […]

What is covenant? What is the mystery in the covenant of Abraham? Today we talk about the New Testament revelation of the mystery in that covenant.

The Mysterious Covenant

Key passage: Deuteronomy 29:9-18

What is a covenant?

Verse 12-13 shows us a covenant is personally possessive by both parties but it’s made through a legal arrangement. It is the blending of law and love. Modern society has no real concept of this because they order everything around the concept of experiencing happiness and fulfillment of self. (I will be what I should be as long as you are what you should be… otherwise I’m out). This is not a covenant but is consumerism. A covenant relationship says, I will be what I should be, whether you are or not. This makes covenants scary because only works well if both parties agree to that.

The mystery of this covenant

Verse 9 and 18 tell us that covenants have terms and conditions. If they are met there are rewards. If they are not there are penalties. The seeming contradiction in scripture about this is when on one hand God says I cannot bless a disobedient people. I am a just judge and cannot overlook guilt. I will only bless you if you obey. But on the other hand says, I will never leave you or forsake you. I will finish the work I created in you. I will bless you no matter what.

This perceivably irresolvable tension is the very plotline of the whole Bible. People fail. Does God accept them anyway (what about his Holiness?). Does He forsake them (what about his Faithfulness?). Is this conditional or unconditional? The Bible seems to give contradictory statements which lead people to fall in one camp or another. This seeming contradiction is never openly addressed in the Old Testament… hence it is a mystery.

In verse 13, this covenant is explained as one made previously to Abraham. This is explained by understanding that covenant in Genesis 15.

The Covenant Sacrifice

God makes his promises to Abraham then seals the contract with a strange ritual of sacrificing and splitting some animals. Then God comes and walks between them. This is a reference to a ritual done to seal covenants usually between a lord and a servant. The sacrifice is made, the rewards and penalties of the covenant are then recited as the servant passes through the blood of the animals signifying that the penalty of breaking the covenant was to be torn apart as the animals were. But Abraham awakes to see God taking this covenantal walk without him. This would’ve been shocking on two levels.

1) God himself came down in human form and walked through (which is the servants role).
2) Abraham was never asked to walk through the sacrifice!

In essence, this says God is to fulfill both roles. The servant’s role to take the penalty of death if the covenant vows are broken as well as the master’s role of bestowing the blessings. The types abound in this model as well. God came in the form of a man. The role of a servant. Darkness was upon the Earth. The promise to be torn apart. All of these were fulfilled by Jesus.

The mystery is revealed

In Galatians 3:15-25 and Romans 4:13-17, Paul declares this promise made in Genesis 15 to be fulfilled by Jesus. He is the ultimate blend of law and love. So are the blessings of God conditional or unconditional? The answer is Yes. At the cross, Christ fulfilled the conditions of the law so God can love us unconditionally. With his perfect life he fulfilled the conditions of the covenant to provide the rewards of the covenant but with his sacrificial death he received the penalty of the covenant.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/the-mysterious-covenant/feed/0What is covenant? What is the mystery in the covenant of Abraham? Today we talk about the New Testament revelation of the mystery in that covenant. The Mysterious Covenant Key passage: Deuteronomy 29:9-18 What is a covenant?What is covenant? What is the mystery in the covenant of Abraham? Today we talk about the New Testament revelation of the mystery in that covenant.GCTNetwork1:29:23A Knife In The Dark Pt. 2, The Lord Of The Rings | SFP015http://gctnetwork.com/a-knife-in-the-dark-pt-2/
http://gctnetwork.com/a-knife-in-the-dark-pt-2/#respondTue, 04 Jul 2017 10:05:19 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4394On the fourth day out from Bree, while in the Midgewater Marshes, Frodo lay uncomfortable and unable to close his eyes. Far away in the eastern sky flashes of lightning leaping from the hill-tops kept Strider standing silent and watchful. It was coming from Weathertop, Amon Sûl. Join us as we continue our journey through […]

On the fourth day out from Bree, while in the Midgewater Marshes, Frodo lay uncomfortable and unable to close his eyes. Far away in the eastern sky flashes of lightning leaping from the hill-tops kept Strider standing silent and watchful. It was coming from Weathertop, Amon Sûl. Join us as we continue our journey through chapter 11 of the Lord of the Rings, A Knife In The Dark.

A Knife In The Dark

It was not on Weathertop that Ring Wraiths finally caught up to the company, but in a small dell at the foot of the hill below the old watchtower of Amon Sûl. It was on Weathertop, it is told, that Elendil stood watching for the coming of Gil-Galad in the days of the Last Alliance. Yet it was in that little dell – on the side away from the hill – that Frodo would see the coming of the shadows, and feel the sting of a knife in the dark!

Hope Of The Tables Of Elrond’s House

Strider does not mislead the hobbits with false hopes; he is quick to chastise unprofitable words. Twice he rebukes them: when Frodo laments that his tightening belt may soon render him a wraith, and when Pippin cries out from the very thought of going to Mordor. Yet, hope is on his lips. The hope found in Imladris:

[T]ighten your belts, and think with hope of the tables of Elrond’s house!

– The Lord of the Rings, A Knife In The Dark, p.190

Full Confidence

This is not the same kind of hope that Frodo expressed in a flippant comment about hoping he does not lose so much of his hobbity mid-section as to resemble a wraith. The hope of Strider is a biblical hope: that if they persevere in the face of persecution there is comfort awaiting them. Much as what Paul wrote to the first century christians in Rome:

Romans 8:24-25 NASBFor in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for who hopes for what he already sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it.

If we make it to Elrond’s house, Strider is saying, you can be confident that his tables will be full and that comfort is there. Persevere. Don’t look back. Persevere.

What stood out to you in A KNIFE IN THE DARK? Let us know in the comments below.

On The Secret Fire Podcast we travel chapter-by-chapter and book-by-book through J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth viewing it through Christian lenses. We invite you to join us each week as we continue the adventure on the Arkenstone server in Lord Of The Rings Online.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/a-knife-in-the-dark-pt-2/feed/0On the fourth day out from Bree, while in the Midgewater Marshes, Frodo lay uncomfortable and unable to close his eyes. Far away in the eastern sky flashes of lightning leaping from the hill-tops kept Strider standing silent and watchful.On the fourth day out from Bree, while in the Midgewater Marshes, Frodo lay uncomfortable and unable to close his eyes. Far away in the eastern sky flashes of lightning leaping from the hill-tops kept Strider standing silent and watchful. It was coming from Weathertop, Amon Sûl. Join us as we continue our journey through […]GCTNetworkBarnabashttp://gctnetwork.com/barnabas/
http://gctnetwork.com/barnabas/#respondSat, 24 Jun 2017 11:45:27 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4389This week we do a character study on the often overlooked disciple named Barnabas. Barnabas Barnabas is one of the most influential yet overlooked characters in the Book of Acts. Today, special guest Richard McKibbin joins us as we give him the proper treatment and examine why the apostles named him the “Son of Encouragement” […]

This week we do a character study on the often overlooked disciple named Barnabas.

Barnabas

Barnabas is one of the most influential yet overlooked characters in the Book of Acts. Today, special guest Richard McKibbin joins us as we give him the proper treatment and examine why the apostles named him the “Son of Encouragement”

We often see him as simply one of Paul’s sidekicks in his missionary work. However, upon closer examination it appears Barnabas was more than likely Paul’s mentor and not the other way around.

How important was it for Barnabas to do the things he did? You will find his decisions had a lasting impact on the future of the church!

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/barnabas/feed/0This week we do a character study on the often overlooked disciple named Barnabas. Barnabas Barnabas is one of the most influential yet overlooked characters in the Book of Acts. Today, special guest Richard McKibbin joins us as we give him the proper ...This week we do a character study on the often overlooked disciple named Barnabas.GCTNetwork1:35:46Church Leadershiphttp://gctnetwork.com/church-leadership/
http://gctnetwork.com/church-leadership/#respondSat, 17 Jun 2017 13:31:58 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4386Today we examine the different styles of Church Leadership, their Biblical examples, and how to determine the best practices. Church Leadership What styles of Church Leadership have been employed over the years? Primarily most churches use at least a derivative of one of the following: Episcopal – From the term episkopos, meaning “overseer” or “bishop”. […]

Today we examine the different styles of Church Leadership, their Biblical examples, and how to determine the best practices.

Church Leadership

What styles of Church Leadership have been employed over the years? Primarily most churches use at least a derivative of one of the following:

Episcopal – From the term episkopos, meaning “overseer” or “bishop”. A hierarchal-autocratic system meaning selections are made from the top down. Bishops oversee multiple churches and appoint priests or elders in each who have local authority.

Presbyterian – From the term presbuteros, meaning “elder”. A hierarchal-representative system meaning selections are made from within. Multiple Elders are appointed from within and have local authority.

Congregational – A local democratic method where the congregational body has the local authority through majority votes. These churches usually appoint a pastor to teach and lead, but authority lies with the congregation body itself.

Which is the most Biblical? How detailed are the scriptures in detailing our church governments? Does it matter? These questions and more are discussed in today’s study.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/church-leadership/feed/0Today we examine the different styles of Church Leadership, their Biblical examples, and how to determine the best practices. Church Leadership What styles of Church Leadership have been employed over the years?Today we examine the different styles of Church Leadership, their Biblical examples, and how to determine the best practices.GCTNetwork1:13:21The Fellowship of Prayer: Part 2http://gctnetwork.com/the-fellowship-of-prayer-part-2/
http://gctnetwork.com/the-fellowship-of-prayer-part-2/#respondWed, 07 Jun 2017 15:20:10 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4379We continue our two part study on prayer and how important it is to build our fellowship with God and others. The Fellowship of Prayer True fellowship (or koinonia in the Greek) with the Father begins in prayer. Today we continue this study. The main point of the study is to show the importance of […]

We continue our two part study on prayer and how important it is to build our fellowship with God and others.

The Fellowship of Prayer

True fellowship (or koinonia in the Greek) with the Father begins in prayer. Today we continue this study. The main point of the study is to show the importance of praying together… corporately. Jesus is seen praying in 37 passages across the New Testament. 33 of those prayers are offered together with others.

Our examination will attempt to show that God has structured His Kingdom so that His mighty workings and purposes are accelerated when we pray together. This study will take us through the Book of Acts to show how the early church placed praying together as a priority to accomplish the work set before them.

Join us as we continue to look at our prayer lives and how important our prayer meetings are.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/the-fellowship-of-prayer-part-2/feed/0We continue our two part study on prayer and how important it is to build our fellowship with God and others. The Fellowship of Prayer True fellowship (or koinonia in the Greek) with the Father begins in prayer. Today we continue this study.We continue our two part study on prayer and how important it is to build our fellowship with God and others.GCTNetwork1:20:16A Knife In The Dark Pt. 1, The Lord Of The Rings | SFP014http://gctnetwork.com/a-knife-in-the-dark-pt-1/
http://gctnetwork.com/a-knife-in-the-dark-pt-1/#respondTue, 06 Jun 2017 10:05:12 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4371As our hobbits sleep in Bree under the watch of Strider at the Prancing Pony, something wicked this way comes. At the same time Fatty Bolger senses trouble coming to to Frodo’s house at Crickhollow. The Black Riders have mounted a two-front attack in their search for the Ring of power and leave the Fellowship […]

As our hobbits sleep in Bree under the watch of Strider at the Prancing Pony, something wicked this way comes. At the same time Fatty Bolger senses trouble coming to to Frodo’s house at Crickhollow. The Black Riders have mounted a two-front attack in their search for the Ring of power and leave the Fellowship without means of transportation. Can Barliman Butterbur find them at least one pony? Join us as we look at chapter eleven of The Lord Of The Rings, A Knife In The Dark.

A KNIFE IN THE DARK

It has been one hundred years since the Horn-call of Buckland has sounded; not since the Fell Winter brought in the white wolves over a frozen Brandywine river. But now the long silent horns rend the night along with shouts of “Awake! Fear! Fire! Foes! Awake!” while Fredegar Bolger narrowly escapes three Black Riders who splinter the doors of Frodo’s house as the cold hour before dawn was passing. At the same time Frodo was awoke from dreams of galloping hoofs, and noise, and wind. Strider roused the rest to get an early morning start on their journey only to find that all the ponies and horses at the Inn were driven off in the night!

THE GODLY CARE FOR THEIR ANIMALS

Frodo was crushed by the news that the ponies were gone. He could not see how they could possibly make it to Rivendell on foot while being pursued by the Black Riders. He wondered if Mr. Butterbur could help in any way:

‘Can’t we get a couple of ponies in the village, or even one just for the baggage? I don’t suppose we could hire them, but we might be able to buy them,’ he added, doubtfully, wondering if he could afford it.

The Lord Of The Rings, A Knife In The Dark, p. 177

The Innkeeper, feeling somewhat responsible for his guests’ misfortunes – and perhaps in an attempt to assuage a lingering guilt for having failed to deliver the letter from Gandalf -, spent twelve of his own silver pennies on a “poor old half-starved” pony owned by the unsavory Bill Ferny.

GRACE AND FAITH

This Bill Ferny did not have a reputation of compassion or kindness. In fact, it’s reasonable to assume that the description of his house could be applied to his “care” of his beasts: dark and ill-kept. One can learn much about a person by observing the way they care for their animals. As the writer in the book of Proverbs put it:

The godly care for their animals,

but the wicked are always cruel

Proverbs 12:10 NLT

This pony was redeemed out of bondage to a wicked man with more money than anyone would find reasonable. And it had an immediate, marked effect on the creature. For as the Fellowship was making their way out of the village, Strider, Frodo, Merry, and Pippin lead the way, while pulling up the rear came Sam and the pony:

which was laden with as much of their baggage as they had the heart to give it; but already it looked less dejected, as if it approved of the change in its fortunes.

The Lord Of The Rings, A Knife In The Dark, p. 180

This pony is an important character in the story, and it gives us the opportunity to discuss the biblical themes of Grace and Faithfulness. We invite you to listen to this episode of The Secret Fire Podcast as we explore this much deeper.

What stood out to you in this section of A KNIFE IN THE DARK? Let us know in the comments below.

On The Secret Fire Podcast we travel chapter-by-chapter and book-by-book through J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth viewing it through Christian lenses. We invite you to join us each week as we continue the adventure on the Arkenstone server in Lord Of The Rings Online.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/a-knife-in-the-dark-pt-1/feed/0As our hobbits sleep in Bree under the watch of Strider at the Prancing Pony, something wicked this way comes. At the same time Fatty Bolger senses trouble coming to to Frodo’s house at Crickhollow. The Black Riders have mounted a two-front attack in t...As our hobbits sleep in Bree under the watch of Strider at the Prancing Pony, something wicked this way comes. At the same time Fatty Bolger senses trouble coming to to Frodo’s house at Crickhollow. The Black Riders have mounted a two-front attack in their search for the Ring of power and leave the Fellowship […]GCTNetworkThe Fellowship of Prayer: Part 1http://gctnetwork.com/the-fellowship-of-prayer-part-1/
http://gctnetwork.com/the-fellowship-of-prayer-part-1/#respondWed, 31 May 2017 22:04:23 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4367Today we begin a two part study on prayer and how important it is to build our fellowship with God and others. The Fellowship of Prayer True fellowship (or koinonia in the Greek) with the Father begins in prayer. In this episode we tackle the intimacy aspects of your prayer-life. How does the bride of […]

Today we begin a two part study on prayer and how important it is to build our fellowship with God and others.

The Fellowship of Prayer

True fellowship (or koinonia in the Greek) with the Father begins in prayer. In this episode we tackle the intimacy aspects of your prayer-life. How does the bride of Christ speak to her husband? How do children communication with their fathers? These are questions that will give us a better understanding of how prayer works between us and God.

We will look at some great examples from the past on how prayer changed the lives of people and even helped start the Second Great Awakening here in the United States. We want people to fall in love with talking to God and not just in some formal obligation of prayer. We also hope the listeners will discern between empty prayer and Spirit-filled prayer.

Join us as we begin this study of how true fellowship is formed around prayer!

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/the-fellowship-of-prayer-part-1/feed/0Today we begin a two part study on prayer and how important it is to build our fellowship with God and others. The Fellowship of Prayer True fellowship (or koinonia in the Greek) with the Father begins in prayer.Today we begin a two part study on prayer and how important it is to build our fellowship with God and others.GCTNetwork1:27:00Strider, The Lord Of The Rings | SFP013http://gctnetwork.com/strider/
http://gctnetwork.com/strider/#respondTue, 30 May 2017 10:05:44 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4362After Frodo’s unsettling disappearance in the common room of the Prancing Pony the very perturbed crowd immediately cleared out. Frodo just wants to get to the relative safety of his room and leave Bree as soon as possible. But first he has an appointment with the enigmatic and undesirable wanderer known as Strider. Join us […]

After Frodo’s unsettling disappearance in the common room of the Prancing Pony the very perturbed crowd immediately cleared out. Frodo just wants to get to the relative safety of his room and leave Bree as soon as possible. But first he has an appointment with the enigmatic and undesirable wanderer known as Strider. Join us as we examine chapter ten of The Lord Of The Rings.

All That Is Gold Does Not Glitter

Frodo, Sam, and Pippin made their way to their private parlor. As they were stoking the dwindling fire to a more comfortable flame they were startled to find Strider sitting quietly by the door. This Ranger has a proposition for Frodo and he requires reward for it. Mr. “Underhill” suspects that Strider means to rob him. After all he looks every bit a rogue! It isn’t until he reads the long-overdue letter from Gandalf – which Barliman Butterbur had forgotten to deliver – that he sees Strider in a different light. The letter includes a poem of Bilbo Baggins that speaks of a king:

All that is gold does not glitter, Not all those who wander are lost; The old that is strong does not wither, Deep roots are not reached by the frost. From the ashes a fire shall be woken, A light from the shadows shall spring; Renewed shall be blade that was broken, The crownless again shall be king.

– J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord Of The Rings, Strider, p. 169

No Splendid Form For Us To See

“Do these lines refer to you,” asked Frodo. “Why didn’t you tell us who you were?” Strider, aka Aragorn son of Arathorn, tells Frodo that he had hoped Frodo and his companions would come to trust him through his own words and actions.

I hoped you would take to me for my own sake. A hunted man sometimes wearies of distrust and longs for friendship. But there, I believe my looks are against me.

– Ibid., p. 170

This is reminiscent of the Messiah and the description of Him in Isaiah as translated in the Common English Bible:

He possessed no splendid form for us to see,no desirable appearance.

– Isaiah 53:2b CEB

Seem Fairer And Feel Fouler

The scriptures have much to say about deceptive appearances, and yet we are prone to judge a book by its cover still. Aragorn has been shunned by the people of Bree. Yes, they want news of the outside world – the kind that only a wandering ranger can provide – but they will not befriend him. They will extend no compassion toward him. They will not welcome him. And they surely would not want him as their king!

Yet Frodo hoped all along that Strider was a friend to he and the other hobbits. He knew that if Strider was truly an enemy he would, “well, seem fairer and feel fouler, if you understand.”

What stood out to you in chapter ten, STRIDER? Let us know in the comments below.

On The Secret Fire Podcast we travel chapter-by-chapter and book-by-book through J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth viewing it through Christian lenses. We invite you to join us each week as we continue the adventure on the Arkenstone server in Lord Of The Rings Online.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/strider/feed/0After Frodo’s unsettling disappearance in the common room of the Prancing Pony the very perturbed crowd immediately cleared out. Frodo just wants to get to the relative safety of his room and leave Bree as soon as possible.After Frodo’s unsettling disappearance in the common room of the Prancing Pony the very perturbed crowd immediately cleared out. Frodo just wants to get to the relative safety of his room and leave Bree as soon as possible. But first he has an appointment with the enigmatic and undesirable wanderer known as Strider. Join us […]GCTNetworkChronicles of the Apocalypse: Tyranthttp://gctnetwork.com/chronicles-of-the-apocalypse-tyrant/
http://gctnetwork.com/chronicles-of-the-apocalypse-tyrant/#respondWed, 24 May 2017 22:02:22 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4353Brian Godawa joins us again to discuss his new book series, Chronicles of the Apocalypse starting with the book Tyrant. We also discuss the eschatology behind the story. Chronicles of the Apocalypse: Tyrant Brian Godawa returns to The Theonauts to discuss his latest series set in the first century. An explosive tale of spiritual warfare […]

Brian Godawa joins us again to discuss his new book series, Chronicles of the Apocalypse starting with the book Tyrant. We also discuss the eschatology behind the story.

Chronicles of the Apocalypse: Tyrant

Brian Godawa returns to The Theonauts to discuss his latest series set in the first century. An explosive tale of spiritual warfare and the origin story of the most controversial book of the Bible: Revelation. Book one in the shocking controversial series Chronicles of the Apocalypse.

In this episode, we discuss the eschatology that serves as the backdrop for the series which has its roots in partial-preterism. Brian helps us to understand his take on that interpretation of the apocalypse while also discussing the drama of his tale.

We’ve had Brian on the show a number of times now and he never ceases to amaze us with his research and knowledge of not only scripture but many historical and influential works surrounding the Bible.

Resources

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/chronicles-of-the-apocalypse-tyrant/feed/0Brian Godawa joins us again to discuss his new book series, Chronicles of the Apocalypse starting with the book Tyrant. We also discuss the eschatology behind the story. Chronicles of the Apocalypse: Tyrant Brian Godawa returns to The Theonauts to disc...Brian Godawa joins us again to discuss his new book series, Chronicles of the Apocalypse starting with the book Tyrant. We also discuss the eschatology behind the storyGCTNetwork1:17:57A Woman’s Worthhttp://gctnetwork.com/a-womans-worth/
http://gctnetwork.com/a-womans-worth/#respondSat, 20 May 2017 16:14:01 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4350Coming off of Mother’s Day we are studying the strength and beauty in all women and where we should all find our worth. (Note of apology on the sound quality of this episode… our amateur recording skills sometimes still shows) A Woman’s Worth – A study of Leah and Rachel Where does today’s woman find […]

Coming off of Mother’s Day we are studying the strength and beauty in all women and where we should all find our worth.

(Note of apology on the sound quality of this episode… our amateur recording skills sometimes still shows)

A Woman’s Worth – A study of Leah and Rachel

Where does today’s woman find her self-worth? Too many times society imposes expectations of beauty, social skills, and standards that are better ignored. Our goal in this episode is to honor women in the worth God has placed on them. We also hope men who listen will see the women in their lives the way God sees them. Find beauty in the same place God finds it.

We address how unimportant outer beauty is compared to the beauty that comes from being loving, compassionate, sympathetic, and nurturing. Jesus found women trustworthy, faithful, dedicated, and worthy to handle the most important message ever… the resurrection.

The story of Leah and Rachel will serve as the object lesson for this topic. Too often the love story of Jacob and Rachel is elevated to romantic proportions like a fairy tale. But they didn’t live happily ever after. Their life was fraught with sibling rivalry with Leah. So we want to look at where these women found their worth. For Leah, it was in getting the love of Jacob. For Rachel, it was in having children. In reality, their worth was found in a greater place as the mothers of the nation of Israel.

Ultimately, the preacher of Proverbs nailed it when he said, “Charm is deceitful and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord will be praised.”

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/a-womans-worth/feed/0Coming off of Mother’s Day we are studying the strength and beauty in all women and where we should all find our worth. (Note of apology on the sound quality of this episode… our amateur recording skills sometimes still shows) A Woman’s Worth – A study...Coming off of Mother's Day we are studying the strength and beauty in all women and where we should all find our worth.GCTNetwork1:20:15At The Sign Of The Prancing Pony, The Lord Of The Rings | SFP012http://gctnetwork.com/prancing-pony/
http://gctnetwork.com/prancing-pony/#respondTue, 16 May 2017 10:05:42 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4346With the help of Tom Bombadil Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin have made it to Bree – the chief village of Bree-land. At the recommendation of Tom the hobbits head for the inn of the Prancing Pony. What adventures await them inside? Join us for a discussion of chapter nine of The Lord Of The […]

With the help of Tom Bombadil Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin have made it to Bree – the chief village of Bree-land. At the recommendation of Tom the hobbits head for the inn of the Prancing Pony. What adventures await them inside? Join us for a discussion of chapter nine of The Lord Of The Rings.

At The Sign Of The Prancing Pony

The inn at Bree had been built long ago when traffic on the road had been far greater. This “city on a hill” (in fact, the word Bree means “hill” in Brythonic – a Celtic language) was a melting pot of peoples and cultures even to this day*. For Sam, seeing the large, three story building reminded him that he had expected to encounter giants as tall as trees as well as other terrible creatures on this adventure. But that he was not ready for that now.

‘We surely aren’t going to stay here for the night, are we, sir?’ he exclaimed. ‘If there are hobbit-folk in these parts, why don’t we look for some that would be willing to take us in? It would be more homelike.’

Frodo reminds him that it was Tom Bombadil who recommended the inn. And that is good enough for Frodo. He trusts the Master. For more on that refer back to the previous four episodes of the Secret Fire Podcast.

*T.A. 3018

‘We surely aren’t going to stay here for the night, are we, sir?’ – Sam Gamgee, At The Sign Of The Prancing Pony

Death And Life Are In The Power Of The Tongue

After being refreshed by a private supper Frodo, Sam, and Pippin accepted the invitation of their host, Barliman Butterbur, to join the company of travelers in the big common-room of the inn for a “bit of news, or any story or song you may have in mind.” Pippin, who was feeling right at home was the first to steer toward danger. He was receiving a good deal of audience laughter as he was sharing an amusing story of the Mayor of Michel Delving, and then, encouraged by the response, began to recount Bilbo’s infamous party trick: namely vanishing without a trace! This would certainly bring to attention the name of Baggins as well as the Ring. Both disastrous in this situation.

Proverbs 10:19 NASBWhen there are many words, transgression is unavoidable,But he who restrains his lips is wise.Proverbs 18:21 NASBDeath and life are in the power of the tongue,And those who love it will eat its fruit.

The Tongue Is A Fire

We are reminded of the words of James 3:1-12 wherein he points out that the tongue, though a small member of the body, is a fire that can metaphorically set a great forest ablaze. Pippin is on the verge of bringing ruin upon our hobbits and their quest because he is letting his tongue get away from him.

Oh, how we as followers of Christ Jesus need to be reminded of this. To repeat the proverb: The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.

James 3:9-10 NASB

With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the likeness of God; from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way.

What stood out to you in AT THE SIGN OF THE PRANCING PONY? Let us know in the comments below.

On The Secret Fire Podcast we travel chapter-by-chapter and book-by-book through J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth viewing it through Christian lenses. We invite you to join us each week as we continue the adventure on the Arkenstone server in Lord Of The Rings Online.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/prancing-pony/feed/0With the help of Tom Bombadil Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin have made it to Bree – the chief village of Bree-land. At the recommendation of Tom the hobbits head for the inn of the Prancing Pony. What adventures await them inside?With the help of Tom Bombadil Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin have made it to Bree – the chief village of Bree-land. At the recommendation of Tom the hobbits head for the inn of the Prancing Pony. What adventures await them inside? Join us for a discussion of chapter nine of The Lord Of The […]GCTNetworkAmoshttp://gctnetwork.com/amos/
http://gctnetwork.com/amos/#respondWed, 03 May 2017 11:20:53 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4338In this episode we dive into the minor prophet Amos. The message of producing justice through righteousness and avoiding empty worship is one we should all listen to. Amos In our ongoing study of minor prophets, we chose to focus on Amos which is often quoted for the wrong reasons. The point of the book […]

In this episode we dive into the minor prophet Amos. The message of producing justice through righteousness and avoiding empty worship is one we should all listen to.

Amos

In our ongoing study of minor prophets, we chose to focus on Amos which is often quoted for the wrong reasons. The point of the book is not Christian fellowship or a how-to book on worship practices. It is however, a scathing reprimand of the Northern Kingdom of Israel and a prophecy of their demise. Although worship is mentioned in the book, the Israelite’s problems were their lack of social justice, moral living, and idolatry. God’s message is that without justice and righteousness or even a general regard for God in your life, worship is worthless.

Our study will try to be as expositional as time permits. What we can take away from the Book of Amos could actually make us take a look at our own lives. Are we living out our salvation? Is justice in our minds? How do we worship? Are we just going through the motions or does it come from a heart that is filled with righteous love?

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/amos/feed/0In this episode we dive into the minor prophet Amos. The message of producing justice through righteousness and avoiding empty worship is one we should all listen to. Amos In our ongoing study of minor prophets,In this episode we dive into the minor prophet Amos. The message of producing justice through righteousness and avoiding empty worship is one we should all listen toGCTNetwork1:34:22Fog On The Barrow-Downs Pt. 2, The Lord Of The Rings | SFP011http://gctnetwork.com/barrow-downs-pt-2/
http://gctnetwork.com/barrow-downs-pt-2/#respondTue, 02 May 2017 10:05:46 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4336Frodo Baggins has been taken by a Barrow-Wight. He awakens to find himself imprisoned in a barrow with Sam, Merry, and Pippin lying next to him. Then he remembered the rhyme Tom Bombadil had taught them. And what power is in that song! Join us as we conclude our discussion of chapter eight of The […]

Frodo Baggins has been taken by a Barrow-Wight. He awakens to find himself imprisoned in a barrow with Sam, Merry, and Pippin lying next to him. Then he remembered the rhyme Tom Bombadil had taught them. And what power is in that song! Join us as we conclude our discussion of chapter eight of The Lord Of The Rings, Fog On The Barrow-Downs.

His Songs Are Stronger Songs

Frodo was neither very fat nor very timid. And though both Bilbo and Gandalf thought him the best hobbit in the Shire, he and his companions were in a danger that he could not get them out of. Though his courage was strong and his resolve hardened him to fight, the memory of the song Tom Bombadil taught him was his best weapon. After singing those words a deep silence fell. Then he heard a familiar voice:

Old Tom Bombadil is a merry fellow, Bright blue his jacket is, and his boots are yellow. None has ever caught him yet, for Tom, he is the master: His songs are stronger songs, and his feet are faster.

The Lord of the Rings, Fog on the Barrow-Downs, p. 142

‘Ah! the spear in my heart!’ He clutched at his breast. ‘No! No!’ he said, opening his eyes. ‘What am I saying? I have been dreaming.’

Escape From The Barrow-Downs

Suddenly light – real light – streamed in and Tom came bounding into the barrow with a song that drove the Barrow-Wights away. Tom’s songs are indeed stronger songs! Frodo is a picture of King David in that he, upon finding himself in terrible danger, remembered the words (song) of Tom Bombadil just as David remembered the words of God:

Psalm 119:110-112 NASB
The wicked have laid a snare for me,
Yet I have not gone astray from Your precepts.
I have inherited Your testimonies forever,
For they are the joy of my heart.
I have inclined my heart to perform Your statutes
Forever, even to the end.

And as David wrote that he treasured God’s words in his heart (Psa 119:11), Frodo kept Tom’s song in his. This is a theme throughout the Middle-earth Legendarium: songs and proverbs memorized and recited in times of present need:

Middle-earth had its own proverbs, parables, sayings, and riddles of the wise. They took the form of poems and songs. Frodo’s counselors often recited their verses of ancient lore as they sought guidance for the present adventure.

What stood out to you in FOG ON THE BARROW-DOWNS? Let us know in the comments below.

On The Secret Fire Podcast we travel chapter-by-chapter and book-by-book through J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth viewing it through Christian lenses. We invite you to join us each week as we continue the adventure on the Arkenstone server in Lord Of The Rings Online.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/barrow-downs-pt-2/feed/0Frodo Baggins has been taken by a Barrow-Wight. He awakens to find himself imprisoned in a barrow with Sam, Merry, and Pippin lying next to him. Then he remembered the rhyme Tom Bombadil had taught them. And what power is in that song!Frodo Baggins has been taken by a Barrow-Wight. He awakens to find himself imprisoned in a barrow with Sam, Merry, and Pippin lying next to him. Then he remembered the rhyme Tom Bombadil had taught them. And what power is in that song! Join us as we conclude our discussion of chapter eight of The […]GCTNetworkHigh Priest of the Resurrectionhttp://gctnetwork.com/high-priest-of-the-resurrection/
http://gctnetwork.com/high-priest-of-the-resurrection/#respondWed, 26 Apr 2017 11:28:24 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4328This year as we celebrate the resurrection, we dive into the details of how it ties into Jesus’ priesthood and the heavenly atonement. High Priest of the Resurrection The Theonauts recently celebrated the death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord at a wilderness retreat where we heard an interesting study on the fulfillment of Jesus […]

This year as we celebrate the resurrection, we dive into the details of how it ties into Jesus’ priesthood and the heavenly atonement.

High Priest of the Resurrection

The Theonauts recently celebrated the death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord at a wilderness retreat where we heard an interesting study on the fulfillment of Jesus as High Priest by our friend and fellow Theonaut, Mike Mahoney. This week we invited him onto the show to share some of his insight into the resurrection event. As we mine for nuggets of gold from the word of God we will examine how elements of the Book of Hebrews ties in directly to some of the strange events surrounding the resurrection morning.

We believe there is nothing incidental or trivial about the word of God. When the Holy Spirit inspired writers to include details that may even seem inconsequential, there is a reason. There are details given in the text surrounding resurrection morning that have often boggled our minds or maybe just seem like unnecessary details. Today we will examine questions like:

Why did Mary think Jesus was just a gardener and not recognize him until he spoke her name?

Why did Jesus tell Mary, “Do not touch me for I have not yet ascended to my Father”?

What was the significance of the two angels sitting in the tomb?

Why does the text go into detail about Jesus’ linens and face napkin?

Granted there are many theories and postulations out there about these questions. Some of these questions you may not have even thought about. Today we will try to tie them into a model that brings even more power to the day Jesus stepped out of the tomb.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/high-priest-of-the-resurrection/feed/0This year as we celebrate the resurrection, we dive into the details of how it ties into Jesus’ priesthood and the heavenly atonement. High Priest of the Resurrection The Theonauts recently celebrated the death, burial,This year as we celebrate the resurrection, we dive into the details of how it ties into Jesus' priesthood and the heavenly atonement.GCTNetwork1:18:39Fog On The Barrow-Downs Pt. 1, The Lord Of The Rings | SFP010http://gctnetwork.com/fog-on-the-barrow-downs-pt-1/
http://gctnetwork.com/fog-on-the-barrow-downs-pt-1/#commentsTue, 25 Apr 2017 10:05:48 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4322Frodo Baggins and company have spent their final night of refreshing in the house of Tom Bombadil. It is time to travel North to Bree. To do that they must skirt the western lower slopes of the dreaded Barrow-Downs. Rumor of the Barrow-wights were tales best left forgotten in the Shire. Join us for a […]

Frodo Baggins and company have spent their final night of refreshing in the house of Tom Bombadil. It is time to travel North to Bree. To do that they must skirt the western lower slopes of the dreaded Barrow-Downs. Rumor of the Barrow-wights were tales best left forgotten in the Shire. Join us for a discussion of chapter eight of The Lord Of The Rings.

My Fair Lady, Clad All In Silver Green!

It was such a lovely morning that it prevented hobbit hearts from plummeting into despair that they were leaving the refreshing that came in the house of Tom Bombadil. Tom came out of the house dancing and waving as they packed the ponies for their next adventure. As they were setting out along the path that rounded the back of the house Frodo stopped short:

‘Goldberry!’ he cried. ‘My fair lady, clad all in silver green! We have never said farewell to her, nor seen her since the evening!’

The Lord Of The Rings, Fog On The Barrow-Downs, p. 135

So powerful is Tom’s discipling of Frodo that the hobbit is now speaking in the same rhythmic meter! We have discussed on previous episodes the idea of being “covered in the dust” of one’s rabbi, or teacher. It seems that Frodo is covered in the songs of Tom Bombadil. That is, he has begun to sound like the Master.

Fog On The Barrow-Downs

Frodo could not leave without saying farewell to Goldberry. Of all the partings he has thus far experienced this was especially painful. Just then Goldberry – River-woman’s daughter – appears:

‘Speed now, fair guests!’ she said. ‘And hold to your purpose! North with the wind in the left eye and a blessing on your footsteps! Make haste while the Sun shines!’

Ibid., p. 136

In the midst of it there stood a single stone, standing tall under the sun above

From there the company sets out, into strange country with hills crowned with green mounds. Stones pointing upward like jagged teeth protruding out of green gums were seen on some. In the distance a lone, solitary stone monolith rose high like some ominous marker or, perhaps, a warning. The hobbits have found themselves in the very place they were told to avoid: the Barrow-Downs!

Join us as we discuss chapter eight of The Lord Of The Rings in this episode of the Secret Fire Podcast.

What stood out to you in Fog On The Barrow-Downs? Let us know in the comments below.

On The Secret Fire Podcast we travel chapter-by-chapter and book-by-book through J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth viewing it through Christian lenses. We invite you to join us each week as we continue the adventure on the Arkenstone server in Lord Of The Rings Online.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/fog-on-the-barrow-downs-pt-1/feed/1Frodo Baggins and company have spent their final night of refreshing in the house of Tom Bombadil. It is time to travel North to Bree. To do that they must skirt the western lower slopes of the dreaded Barrow-Downs.Frodo Baggins and company have spent their final night of refreshing in the house of Tom Bombadil. It is time to travel North to Bree. To do that they must skirt the western lower slopes of the dreaded Barrow-Downs. Rumor of the Barrow-wights were tales best left forgotten in the Shire. Join us for a […]GCTNetworkIn The House Of Tom Bombadil Pt.2, The Lord Of The Rings | SFP009http://gctnetwork.com/who-is-tom-bombadil/
http://gctnetwork.com/who-is-tom-bombadil/#commentsTue, 18 Apr 2017 10:05:18 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4309Of the many enigmatic characters in J.R.R. Tolkien’s Legendarium perhaps none pique the curiosity of readers more than Tom Bombadil. “Who is he” is the question posed by Frodo. “What is he” is the question us Middle-earthlings wished was answered. In this episode of the Secret Fire Podcast we search for clues as we finish […]

Of the many enigmatic characters in J.R.R. Tolkien’s Legendarium perhaps none pique the curiosity of readers more than Tom Bombadil. “Who is he” is the question posed by Frodo. “What is he” is the question us Middle-earthlings wished was answered. In this episode of the Secret Fire Podcast we search for clues as we finish chapter seven of The Lord Of The Rings.

Who Is Tom Bombadil?

In The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien number 153, the Professor addressed the concerns of one Peter Hastings, manager of the Newman Bookshop in Oxford. Mr. Hastings was concerned that Tolkien may have overstepped his Catholic beliefs by seemingly equating Tom Bombadil with the “I Am” who spoke to Moses from the burning bush. Tokien’s reply squelches any possibility of Bombail’s divinity:

You have […] paid me the compliment of taking me seriously; though I cannot avoid wondering whether it is not ‘too seriously’, or in the wrong directions.As for Tom Bombadil, I really do think you are being too serious, besides missing the point. (Again the words used are by Goldberry and Tom not me as a commentator) […] Frodo has asked not ‘what is Tom Bombadil’ but ‘Who is he’. We and he no doubt often laxly confuse the questions. Goldberry gives what I think is the correct answer. We need not go into the sublimities of ‘I am that [I] am’ –which is quite different from he is. She adds as a concession a statement of part of the ‘what’. He is master in a peculiar way: he has no fear, and no desire of possession or domination at all. He merely knows and understands about such things as concern him in his natural little realm. He hardly even judges, and as far as can be seen makes no effort to reform or remove even the Willow.

Inside the house of Tom Bombadil is refreshing in The Lord Of The Rings Online.

He Is Tom Bombadil

He is not Eru Iluvatar. Tolkien explicitly stated in letter 181 that the idea of God’s Incarnation was too large to fit in his work. But this fact does not end the possibilities, or discussion. We have other options to consider. Here is a brief outline of possible answers:

The Eldar knew not whence she came; but some have said that in ages long before she descended from the darkness that lies about Arda – p. 73

Note: There are mysterious creatures – such as the dark nameless things whose existence Sauron know not, since they are “older than him”, which Gandalf talks about (we’ll get to that – eventually).

What do you think Tom Bombadil is? Let us know in the comments below.

On The Secret Fire Podcast we travel chapter-by-chapter and book-by-book through J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth viewing it through Christian lenses. We invite you to join us each week as we continue the adventure on the Arkenstone server in Lord Of The Rings Online.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/who-is-tom-bombadil/feed/2Of the many enigmatic characters in J.R.R. Tolkien’s Legendarium perhaps none pique the curiosity of readers more than Tom Bombadil. “Who is he” is the question posed by Frodo. “What is he” is the question us Middle-earthlings wished was answered.Of the many enigmatic characters in J.R.R. Tolkien’s Legendarium perhaps none pique the curiosity of readers more than Tom Bombadil. “Who is he” is the question posed by Frodo. “What is he” is the question us Middle-earthlings wished was answered. In this episode of the Secret Fire Podcast we search for clues as we finish […]GCTNetworkMelchizedekhttp://gctnetwork.com/melchizedek/
http://gctnetwork.com/melchizedek/#respondWed, 12 Apr 2017 11:01:44 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4305Who was Melchizedek? Why is he compared to Jesus? Tune in to see the significance of this model. Melchizedek In Genesis 14 we have a strange event that occurs after Abram defeats the armies of four kings. The King of Salem shows up. He is referred to as Melchizedek, a priest of the most-high God. […]

Who was Melchizedek? Why is he compared to Jesus? Tune in to see the significance of this model.

Melchizedek

In Genesis 14 we have a strange event that occurs after Abram defeats the armies of four kings. The King of Salem shows up. He is referred to as Melchizedek, a priest of the most-high God. Hmm?

He then offers Abram and his men bread and wine. Then Abram offers him a tenth of the spoils. Then he is not mentioned in the story again. This has been a source of a lot of speculation both from a Jewish and a Christian perspective. Especially since the writer of Hebrews uses Melchizedek as a model for Christ multiple times (Hebrews 7 for example).

So today we will examine what we know about this Melchizedek. We’ll look at both Biblical and extra-Biblical references to him. We’ll also ponder the question of who he might be and what the implications of that are. And finally, we will expand on how he is a model… or even perhaps an incarnation of Jesus Christ.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/melchizedek/feed/0Who was Melchizedek? Why is he compared to Jesus? Tune in to see the significance of this model. Melchizedek In Genesis 14 we have a strange event that occurs after Abram defeats the armies of four kings. The King of Salem shows up.Who was Melchizedek? Why is he compared to Jesus? Tune in to see the significance of this model.GCTNetwork1:10:17The Names of Godhttp://gctnetwork.com/the-names-of-god/
http://gctnetwork.com/the-names-of-god/#respondTue, 28 Mar 2017 14:19:52 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4299What’s in a name? Today we discuss the names God calls himself as well as names given to Him and how those names foreshadow Jesus. The Names of God Adonai – Lord (Great Lord) El – The Strong One (god) El Elohe Yisrael – The God of Israel Elohim – All Powerful Creator God (plural […]

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/the-names-of-god/feed/0What’s in a name? Today we discuss the names God calls himself as well as names given to Him and how those names foreshadow Jesus. The Names of God Adonai – Lord (Great Lord) El – The Strong One (god) El Elohe Yisrael – The God of Israel Elohim – All P...What's in a name? Today we discuss the names God calls himself as well as names given to Him and how those names foreshadow Jesus.GCTNetwork1:14:38Witchcrafthttp://gctnetwork.com/witchcraft/
http://gctnetwork.com/witchcraft/#respondTue, 21 Mar 2017 18:10:17 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4295What constitutes witchcraft and why does the Bible speak so strongly about it? Witchcraft In this episode of the Theonauts, we will discuss the issue of witchcraft. It seems that most modern day Christians do not give witchcraft a second glance. We don’t take it too seriously. Our pop-culture is saturated in references to it. […]

What constitutes witchcraft and why does the Bible speak so strongly about it?

Witchcraft

In this episode of the Theonauts, we will discuss the issue of witchcraft. It seems that most modern day Christians do not give witchcraft a second glance. We don’t take it too seriously. Our pop-culture is saturated in references to it. Yet the Bible addresses it over and over again. It was an offense punishable by death under the old Law. So how should we be looking at it today?

Why is witchcraft attractive to young people today? We’ll talk about some of the draws and the attractiveness of practicing it. But then there is the question of how far do you take this? Does this mean discarding such classic stories as the Wizard of Oz or any other work that contains witchcraft?

In addition to these questions, we will also address some ancient theories of where witchcraft and sorcery began.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/witchcraft/feed/0What constitutes witchcraft and why does the Bible speak so strongly about it? Witchcraft In this episode of the Theonauts, we will discuss the issue of witchcraft. It seems that most modern day Christians do not give witchcraft a second glance.What constitutes witchcraft and why does the Bible speak so strongly about it?GCTNetwork1:12:26Christian Themes in Walt Disney’s THE JUNGLE BOOKhttp://gctnetwork.com/christian-themes-jungle-book/
http://gctnetwork.com/christian-themes-jungle-book/#respondThu, 16 Mar 2017 22:05:33 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4291On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we beware the prickly paw-paw and look for Christian themes in Walt Disney’s live-action remake of THE JUNGLE BOOK. What does it mean for Mowgli to be a part of the Body? Does he have to die to the Law of the Jungle to be free from […]

On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we beware the prickly paw-paw and look for Christian themes in Walt Disney’s live-action remake of THE JUNGLE BOOK. What does it mean for Mowgli to be a part of the Body? Does he have to die to the Law of the Jungle to be free from that Law?

For your convenience you will find each podcast segment at the time referenced below:

Use These Key Verses When Watching THE JUNGLE BOOK

But now we are released from the law, having died to that which held us captive, so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit and not in the old way of the written code.

The strength of the church is the members…

Romans 12:5 CEB

In the same way, though there are many of us, we are one body in Christ, and individually we belong to each other.

Christian Themes In Your Favorite Movies

In Finding Christ In Cinema we dig deeper into the silver-screen classics of yesteryear as well as the box-office hits of today. We take a closer look at the stories they tell and see if we find the face of Jesus looking back. Together we explore the deeper meanings of these films; their plots and their twists; the characters and their choices; and see how we can relate them to the gospel of salvation and ultimately our Christian walk.

For complete show notes and other episodes of FCC visit the Finding Christ In Cinema website.

Click on the audio player at the top of the post to listen to this episode, or use the links below for other ways to hear Finding Christ In Cinema podcast.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/christian-themes-jungle-book/feed/0On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we beware the prickly paw-paw and look for Christian themes in Walt Disney’s live-action remake of THE JUNGLE BOOK. What does it mean for Mowgli to be a part of the Body?On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we beware the prickly paw-paw and look for Christian themes in Walt Disney’s live-action remake of THE JUNGLE BOOK. What does it mean for Mowgli to be a part of the Body? Does he have to die to the Law of the Jungle to be free from […]GCTNetwork55:05Discover Christian Themes in SULLY Starring Tom Hankshttp://gctnetwork.com/christian-themes-sully/
http://gctnetwork.com/christian-themes-sully/#respondThu, 16 Mar 2017 15:40:12 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4289On this episode of Finding Christ in Tom Hanks Films, we glide onto the Hudson and save 155 souls as we look for Christian themes in SULLY. How miraculous is the Miracle on the Hudson? How is being a Savior a part of Sully’s Second Nature? For your convenience you will find each podcast segment […]

On this episode of Finding Christ in Tom Hanks Films, we glide onto the Hudson and save 155 souls as we look for Christian themes in SULLY. How miraculous is the Miracle on the Hudson? How is being a Savior a part of Sully’s Second Nature?

For your convenience you will find each podcast segment at the time referenced below:

Use These Key Verses When Watching SULLY

And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes.

John 10:28 NIV

I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.

Christian Themes In Your Favorite Movies

In Finding Christ In Cinema we dig deeper into the silver-screen classics of yesteryear as well as the box-office hits of today. We take a closer look at the stories they tell and see if we find the face of Jesus looking back. Together we explore the deeper meanings of these films; their plots and their twists; the characters and their choices; and see how we can relate them to the gospel of salvation and ultimately our Christian walk.

For complete show notes and other episodes of FCC visit the Finding Christ In Cinema website.

Click on the audio player at the top of the post to listen to this episode, or use the links below for other ways to hear Finding Christ In Cinema podcast.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/christian-themes-sully/feed/0On this episode of Finding Christ in Tom Hanks Films, we glide onto the Hudson and save 155 souls as we look for Christian themes in SULLY. How miraculous is the Miracle on the Hudson? How is being a Savior a part of Sully’s Second Nature?On this episode of Finding Christ in Tom Hanks Films, we glide onto the Hudson and save 155 souls as we look for Christian themes in SULLY. How miraculous is the Miracle on the Hudson? How is being a Savior a part of Sully’s Second Nature? For your convenience you will find each podcast segment […]GCTNetwork56:22In The House Of Tom Bombadil Pt. 1, The Lord Of The Rings | SFP008http://gctnetwork.com/tom-bombadil/
http://gctnetwork.com/tom-bombadil/#commentsTue, 14 Mar 2017 10:05:56 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4284Just when it looked as if Frodo, Sam, Pippin, and Merry would have their adventure through the Old Forest abruptly ended by Old Man Willow, a eucatastrophe happened! Let us join our hobbits as they are promised safety and refreshing at The House Of Tom Bombadil. It’s all in chapter seven of The Lord Of […]

Just when it looked as if Frodo, Sam, Pippin, and Merry would have their adventure through the Old Forest abruptly ended by Old Man Willow, a eucatastrophe happened! Let us join our hobbits as they are promised safety and refreshing at The House Of Tom Bombadil. It’s all in chapter seven of The Lord Of The Rings.

In The House Of Tom Bombadil

As the hobbits stepped out of the forest and onto a wide sweep of grass – which under their feet was smooth and shorn – they saw it: the house of Tom Bambadil. Frodo, Sam, Pippin, and Merry crossed the threshold of the home and found themselves in a long, low room lit with lamps hanging from beams in the roof, and a dark wood table with tall candles burning brightly on its polished surface. Sitting in a chair across the room, looking every bit like an elf-queen, was Goldberry, daughter of the River.

Let Us Shut Out The Night

Goldberry took Frodo by the hand and encouraged the hobbits to laugh and be merry. Then she closed the door behind them and offered more words of comfort:

‘Let us shut out the night!’ she said. ‘For you are still afraid, perhaps, of mist and tree-shadows and deep water, and untame things. Fear nothing! For tonight you are under the roof of Tom Bombadil.’

The Lord Of The Rings, In The House Of Tom Bombadil, p. 123

To be under the roof of Tom Bombadil means that one is well-cared for; all needs are met; and that times of refreshing and encouragement have come to the weary and heavy-laden.

… high above them on a further slope, they saw the twinkling lights of a house. The house of Tom Bombadil as seen in The Lord Of The Rings Online™️

Tom Will Refresh You

The care that Frodo, Sam, Pippin, and Merry receive while in the house of Tom Bombadil is reminiscent of this statement of Jesus:

Matthew 11:28-30 NASB

Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.

The parallels between this passage and what we read in chapter seven of The Lord Of The Rings are striking indeed. J.R.R. Tolkien was a devout Christian; therefore, he may have had this scripture in mind while writing. Tom says, “Come unto me, all you hobbits who are weary and heavy-laden, and Tom will give you rest (refreshing). Take my yoke upon you – that is, be yoked to and learn from Tom, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find refreshment in the house of Tom Bombadil.”

Join us as we discuss all this and much more on this episode of The Secret Fire Podcast.

What stood out to you in IN THE HOUSE OF TOM BOMBADIL? Let us know in the comments below.

On The Secret Fire Podcast we travel chapter-by-chapter and book-by-book through J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth viewing it through Christian lenses. We invite you to join us each week as we continue the adventure on the Arkenstone server in Lord Of The Rings Online. We meet at the Three Farthing Stone in the Shire.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/tom-bombadil/feed/3Just when it looked as if Frodo, Sam, Pippin, and Merry would have their adventure through the Old Forest abruptly ended by Old Man Willow, a eucatastrophe happened! Let us join our hobbits as they are promised safety and refreshing at The House Of Tom...Just when it looked as if Frodo, Sam, Pippin, and Merry would have their adventure through the Old Forest abruptly ended by Old Man Willow, a eucatastrophe happened! Let us join our hobbits as they are promised safety and refreshing at The House Of Tom Bombadil. It’s all in chapter seven of The Lord Of […]GCTNetworkMegachurchhttp://gctnetwork.com/megachurch/
http://gctnetwork.com/megachurch/#respondMon, 13 Mar 2017 23:01:11 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4281Today we talk about the pros and cons of megachurches. Is it easier or harder to be what the Bible calls us to be when in great numbers? Megachurch Riley Neal joins us today to help us discuss the nature of large churches, their pros and their cons, how they work and how they don’t. […]

Today we talk about the pros and cons of megachurches. Is it easier or harder to be what the Bible calls us to be when in great numbers?

Megachurch

Riley Neal joins us today to help us discuss the nature of large churches, their pros and their cons, how they work and how they don’t. Obviously, most of this episode will be an opinion piece as we discuss the topic from personal experience and draw from published demographics.

What is the draw of a megachurch?
Why are they primarily made up of a younger demographic?
What kind of long-term membership is involved?
What about outreach, ethnic diversity, programs, and missions?
What about those satellite services?
What is the impact of a Senior Pastor in these churches?

We will address these and more questions as we examine this trend in Western Christianity.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/megachurch/feed/0Today we talk about the pros and cons of megachurches. Is it easier or harder to be what the Bible calls us to be when in great numbers? Megachurch Riley Neal joins us today to help us discuss the nature of large churches, their pros and their cons,Today we talk about the pros and cons of megachurches. Is it easier or harder to be what the Bible calls us to be when in great numbers?GCTNetwork1:15:01Searching for Christian Themes in J.J. Abrams’ SUPER 8http://gctnetwork.com/christian-themes-super-8/
http://gctnetwork.com/christian-themes-super-8/#respondThu, 09 Mar 2017 16:35:16 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4274On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we crank up the old movie cameras and look for Christian themes in JJ Abrams’ SUPER 8. How is learning how to forgive a part of growing up? How does Joe learn to be compassionate? For your convenience you will find each podcast segment at the time […]

On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we crank up the old movie cameras and look for Christian themes in JJ Abrams’ SUPER 8. How is learning how to forgive a part of growing up? How does Joe learn to be compassionate?

For your convenience you will find each podcast segment at the time referenced below:

Christian Virtues of Forgiveness and Compassion in Super 8

Use these key texts as tools for better understanding and sharing the Good News with friends while watching J.J. Abrams’ 2011 sci-fi hit, Super 8.

Luke 17:3-4 AMP

If your brother sins and disregards God’s precepts, solemnly warn him; and if he repents and changes, forgive him. Even if he sins against you seven times a day, and returns to you seven times and says, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive him [that is, give up resentment and consider the offense recalled and annulled].

Luke 6:31 CEB

Treat people in the same way that you want them to treat you.

In Finding Christ In Cinema we dig deeper into the silver-screen classics of yesteryear as well as the box-office hits of today. We take a closer look at the stories they tell and see if we find the face of Jesus looking back. Together we explore the deeper meanings of these films; their plots and their twists; the characters and their choices; and see how we can relate them to the gospel of salvation and ultimately our Christian walk.

For complete show notes and other episodes of FCC visit the Finding Christ In Cinema website.

Click on the audio player at the top of the post to listen to this episode, or use the links below for other ways to hear Finding Christ In Cinema podcast.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/christian-themes-super-8/feed/0On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we crank up the old movie cameras and look for Christian themes in JJ Abrams’ SUPER 8. How is learning how to forgive a part of growing up? How does Joe learn to be compassionate?On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we crank up the old movie cameras and look for Christian themes in JJ Abrams’ SUPER 8. How is learning how to forgive a part of growing up? How does Joe learn to be compassionate? For your convenience you will find each podcast segment at the time […]GCTNetwork1:04:40Habakkukhttp://gctnetwork.com/habakkuk/
http://gctnetwork.com/habakkuk/#respondTue, 07 Mar 2017 14:11:35 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4269Habakkuk is a minor prophet of the Old Testament. Join us in an expository study of this book about doubt, fear, oppression, and ultimately living by faith. Habakkuk Historical background: Habakkuk is not mentioned in any other scriptures aside from the book that bears his name. He does however have a very minor role in […]

Habakkuk is a minor prophet of the Old Testament. Join us in an expository study of this book about doubt, fear, oppression, and ultimately living by faith.

Habakkuk

Historical background: Habakkuk is not mentioned in any other scriptures aside from the book that bears his name. He does however have a very minor role in the extra-biblical book, Bel and the Dragon (from the Apocrypha). The context of the dialog however gives us an idea that the book was written prior to the Babylonian captivity of Israel. We are estimating the setting to be about 620 BC.

This book is an awesome study on persevering trials through faith. It is eloquently delivered through a dialog Habakkuk has with God. The first two chapters present these dialogs. The third chapter is Habakkuk’s response of praise as a result of God’s lesson to him…

The righteous shall live by faith

This is the message of the book and one that we can take with us in our lives as well.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/habakkuk/feed/0Habakkuk is a minor prophet of the Old Testament. Join us in an expository study of this book about doubt, fear, oppression, and ultimately living by faith. Habakkuk Historical background: Habakkuk is not mentioned in any other scriptures aside from th...Habakkuk is a minor prophet of the Old Testament. Join us in an expository study of this book about doubt, fear, oppression, and ultimately living by faith.GCTNetwork1:13:24The Old Forest, The Lord Of The Rings | SFP007http://gctnetwork.com/old-forest/
http://gctnetwork.com/old-forest/#respondTue, 07 Mar 2017 11:05:44 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4265The Hobbits enter the Old Forest thinking it a better route for eluding the danger of the Black Riders. What they find is that the trees are directing and deflecting them to the Withywindle valley: the center of evil in the forest, and home to Old Man Willow. Join us as we continue the adventure […]

The Hobbits enter the Old Forest thinking it a better route for eluding the danger of the Black Riders. What they find is that the trees are directing and deflecting them to the Withywindle valley: the center of evil in the forest, and home to Old Man Willow. Join us as we continue the adventure in chapter six of The Lord Of The Rings.

The Old Forest

The morning after arriving at Crickhollow the hobbits were up by 4:30 and leaving soon after six o’clock. Making their way through fields in the still, quiet morning they came to a shed housing six ponies that were to take them on the journey through the Old Forest. The Old Forest! What trouble lay ahead, Pippin wondered. Merry lost no time in painting a disturbing picture by way of campfire (or should we say, bonfire?) stories. If Meriadoc embellished for effect, the reality of the situation was perhaps even more disturbing.

A Hobbit’s Way Is Not In Himself

The plan was to head Northeast in as true a line as the trail would permit. Instead, the trees of the Old Forest forced the hobbits in almost the opposite direction, and to the very place they most wanted to avoid: the Withywindle valley. According to Merry:

‘We don’t want to go that way! The Withywindle valley is said to be the queerest part of the whole wood –the centre from which all the queerness comes, as it were.’
The Lord Of The Rings, The Old Forest, pg. 113

The place they most desperately tried to navigate away from is exactly where they ended up. Their desire was peace and safe travel; the reality was a meeting with Old Man Willow! This is reminiscent of the prophet who said, it is not in man who walks to direct his own steps (Jeremiah 10:23).

Calling On The Name Of Tom Bombadil

Pippin’s entire body was trapped inside Old Man Willow; Merry was half in and half out after both fell to a sleeping spell. Sam, out of sheer desperation and aggravation, was threatening to gnaw the terrible tree with his teeth, or to scorch it with fire. What else could be done?

But Frodo, without any clear idea of why he did so, or what he hoped for, ran along the path crying help! help! help!
Ibid., pg. 118

‘What?’ shouted Tom Bombadil, leaping up in the air. ‘Old Man Willow? Naught worse than that, eh?’ Old Man Willow as seen in The Lord Of The Rings Online.

Eucatastrophe!

And, as if right on cue, Tom Bombadil – one of the most enigmatic characters in all of J.R.R. Tolkien’s legendarium – answers the call. This is an example of what the Professor coined a ‘eucatastrophe’: the sudden happy turn in a story which pierces you with a joy that brings tears (letter 89). One can’t help but to see David and Yahweh in this. Time and again David called out in moments of great need, and God answered. This is exemplified by an unknown author:

Psalm 116:1-9 NASB
I love the Lord, because He hears
My voice and my supplications.
Because He has inclined His ear to me,
Therefore I shall call upon Him as long as I live.
The cords of death encompassed me
And the terrors of Sheol came upon me;
I found distress and sorrow.
Then I called upon the name of the Lord:
“O Lord, I beseech You, save my life!”
Gracious is the Lord, and righteous;
Yes, our God is compassionate.
The Lord preserves the simple;
I was brought low, and He saved me.
Return to your rest, O my soul,
For the Lord has dealt bountifully with you.
For You have rescued my soul from death,
My eyes from tears,
My feet from stumbling.
I shall walk before the Lord
In the land of the living.

What stood out to you in the THE OLD FOREST? Let us know in the comments below.

On The Secret Fire Podcast we travel chapter-by-chapter and book-by-book through J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth viewing it through Christian lenses. We invite you to join us each week as we continue the adventure on the Arkenstone server in Lord Of The Rings Online. We meet at the Three Farthing Stone in the Shire.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/old-forest/feed/0The Hobbits enter the Old Forest thinking it a better route for eluding the danger of the Black Riders. What they find is that the trees are directing and deflecting them to the Withywindle valley: the center of evil in the forest,The Hobbits enter the Old Forest thinking it a better route for eluding the danger of the Black Riders. What they find is that the trees are directing and deflecting them to the Withywindle valley: the center of evil in the forest, and home to Old Man Willow. Join us as we continue the adventure […]GCTNetworkHeresy!http://gctnetwork.com/heresy/
http://gctnetwork.com/heresy/#respondThu, 02 Mar 2017 00:05:21 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4259Heresy is a term which gets thrown around a lot. What actually is heresy? What is a heretic? Where do we draw the line and how does the Bible address it? Heresy! Heresy is the more than likely the single greatest reason for church division. So something with such power and destructive force should be […]

Heresy is a term which gets thrown around a lot. What actually is heresy? What is a heretic? Where do we draw the line and how does the Bible address it?

Heresy!

Heresy is the more than likely the single greatest reason for church division. So something with such power and destructive force should be handled with care. But how readily do we use the term? Is someone who simply disagrees with you a heretic? If so, how far do you take that definition? We disagree about some pretty silly things and some pretty serious things. We would probably all agree that there’s a difference. Part of the problem is that line is often grayer than we’d like it to be.

How does the Bible actually use the terms heresy and heretic? You might be surprised how it was originally defined and the context surrounding the texts which use it. Maybe we should be a little more discerning about how we use that term and how we act. Not at the expense of accepting villains into our midst, but maybe we should at least have grace on those who are honestly attempting to serve God and understand the scriptures.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/heresy/feed/0Heresy is a term which gets thrown around a lot. What actually is heresy? What is a heretic? Where do we draw the line and how does the Bible address it? Heresy! Heresy is the more than likely the single greatest reason for church division.Heresy is a term which gets thrown around a lot. What actually is heresy? What is a heretic? Where do we draw the line and how does the Bible address it?GCTNetwork1:09:57A Conspiracy Unmasked, The Lord Of The Rings | SFP006http://gctnetwork.com/conspiracy-unmasked/
http://gctnetwork.com/conspiracy-unmasked/#commentsTue, 28 Feb 2017 11:05:52 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4237In A Conspiracy Unmasked Frodo, Sam, and Pippin finally make their way over the Brandywine river and to Frodo’s new home at Crickhollow. Merry and Fredegar Bolger have worked hard to make everything as comfortable as possible. Did they succeed? Let’s explore chapter 5 of The Lord Of The Rings on this episode of The […]

In A Conspiracy Unmasked Frodo, Sam, and Pippin finally make their way over the Brandywine river and to Frodo’s new home at Crickhollow. Merry and Fredegar Bolger have worked hard to make everything as comfortable as possible. Did they succeed? Let’s explore chapter 5 of The Lord Of The Rings on this episode of The Secret Fire Podcast.

Crossing The Baranduin

Over the Brandywine river lies Buckland, a “sort of colony from the Shire” settled long ago (T.A. 2340) by one Gorhendad Oldbuck. These “half foreigners” were the most peculiar of all hobbits according to the decent and sensible folk Samwise Gamgee was brought up around. After all, they were fond of boats. And some of them could swim! Crossing the river was possibly the most unnerving part of this adventure thus far for Sam:

He had a strange feeling as the slow gurgling stream slipped by: his old life lay behind in the mists, dark adventure lay in front. He scratched his head, and for a moment had a passing wish that Mr. Frodo could have gone on living quietly at Bag End.

The Lord of the Rings, A Conspiracy Unmasked, p. 99

For Hobbits of the Shire, the Brandywine was traditionally the demarcation between the known and unknown. The name is a pun. In Sindarin it is called the Baranduin, or golden-brown river. The Hobbits named it Bralda-hîm, or heady ale – which is Brandywine in English. The river flows out of Lake Evendim in northern Eriador and has two crossings in the Shire: Brandywine Bridge and Bucklebury Ferry.

The Brandywine Bridge looking toward Buckland in The Lord Of The Rings Online.

A Conspiracy Unmasked

Meriadoc Brandybuck and Fatty Bolger had a short time before the arrival of this company of three, and they wanted to make Frodo’s new home at Crickhollow as comfortable as possible. They had even arranged the furniture to resemble Bag End. For the road-weary travelers Merry had prepared three bathtubs with piping hot water, soap, and towels. Dinner (the second that night!) was being prepared. Great care was shown on behalf of their friends; and Frodo was both grateful and remorseful:

It was a pleasant, comfortable, welcoming place; and he found himself wishing that he was really coming here to settle down in quiet retirement. It seemed unfair to have put his friends to all this trouble; and he wondered again how he was going to break the news to them that he must leave them so soon, indeed at once.

Ibid., p. 100

Fellowship Is Unity

What Frodo doesn’t know is that his friends are completely aware of his intentions. They had been for quite some time. Nor did Frodo know that they had plans of their own: they were going to go with him wherever this adventure would lead. This was the unmasking of the conspiracy. These Hobbits from various towns of the Shire (and even Buckland!) who have differing cultural mores are of one mind and spirit. They love each other and care for one another by placing the other’s needs first. This is exactly what the apostle Paul encouraged the Philippian church to do and be:

Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus

Philippians 2:1-5 NASB

What a wonderful lesson Christians can learn from this fellowship of Hobbits in A Conspiracy Unmasked.

On The Secret Fire Podcast we travel chapter-by-chapter and book-by-book through J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth viewing it through Christian lenses. We invite you to join us each week as we continue the adventure on the Arkenstone server in Lord Of The Rings Online. We meet at the Three Farthing Stone in the Shire.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/conspiracy-unmasked/feed/1In A Conspiracy Unmasked Frodo, Sam, and Pippin finally make their way over the Brandywine river and to Frodo’s new home at Crickhollow. Merry and Fredegar Bolger have worked hard to make everything as comfortable as possible. Did they succeed?In A Conspiracy Unmasked Frodo, Sam, and Pippin finally make their way over the Brandywine river and to Frodo’s new home at Crickhollow. Merry and Fredegar Bolger have worked hard to make everything as comfortable as possible. Did they succeed? Let’s explore chapter 5 of The Lord Of The Rings on this episode of The […]GCTNetworkA Call to Unity (feat. W. Carl Ketcherside)http://gctnetwork.com/a-call-to-unity-feat-w-carl-ketcherside/
http://gctnetwork.com/a-call-to-unity-feat-w-carl-ketcherside/#respondSat, 25 Feb 2017 00:40:21 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4232This week we are minus one theonaut… so we are going to teach on Christian unity again by listening to one of the late W. Carl Ketcherside’s presentations given over 40 years ago. A Call to Unity Over 40 years ago W. Carl Ketcherside was a crusader for a movement of unity in Christian churches… […]

This week we are minus one theonaut… so we are going to teach on Christian unity again by listening to one of the late W. Carl Ketcherside’s presentations given over 40 years ago.

A Call to Unity

Over 40 years ago W. Carl Ketcherside was a crusader for a movement of unity in Christian churches… starting with his own sectarian background. Carl devoted the second half of his life to this very costly venture of becoming a “peacemaker” instead of a “piece maker”. He often liked to say that when Christ enters, sectarianism has to leave.

Years later we are as divided as ever but we can still learn to change our thinking. Unity is not an impossible task otherwise, our Lord would not have asked for it in John 17 as He prayed for us.

So join us in listening to the thought-provoking words of this peacemaker and maybe we can help answer the call to stop being piece makers… and start being peacemakers.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/a-call-to-unity-feat-w-carl-ketcherside/feed/0This week we are minus one theonaut… so we are going to teach on Christian unity again by listening to one of the late W. Carl Ketcherside’s presentations given over 40 years ago. A Call to Unity Over 40 years ago W.This week we are minus one theonaut... so we are going to teach on Christian unity again by listening to one of the late W. Carl Ketcherside's presentations given over 40 years ago.GCTNetwork30:11A Short Cut To Mushrooms, The Lord Of The Rings | SFP005http://gctnetwork.com/short-cut-to-mushrooms/
http://gctnetwork.com/short-cut-to-mushrooms/#respondTue, 21 Feb 2017 11:05:42 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4224In A Short Cut To Mushrooms Frodo’s desire to evade the Black Riders leads he and his companions directly to another danger: Farmer Maggot! All the while Samwise Gamgee illustrates faith and faithfulness in this chapter of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord Of The Rings. Short Cuts Make Long Delays The morning after their encounter with […]

In A Short Cut To Mushrooms Frodo’s desire to evade the Black Riders leads he and his companions directly to another danger: Farmer Maggot! All the while Samwise Gamgee illustrates faith and faithfulness in this chapter of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord Of The Rings.

Short Cuts Make Long Delays

The morning after their encounter with Gildor and the Elves finds our hobbits enjoying a breakfast left behind by the former. The plan for the day is to “walk to Bucklebury as quickly as possible.” Frodo is certain that they will indeed see more of those Black Riders, and he desires to minimize the risk with a shortcut. This bright morning had not banished the fear of pursuit, and now he wishes to deliver his friends safely to Crickhollow, and from there to immediately leave for his quest alone.

‘It is one thing to take my young friends walking over the Shire with me, until we are hungry and weary, and food and bed are sweet. To take them into exile, where hunger and weariness may have no cure, is quite another – even if they are willing to come.’

The Lord of the Rings, A Short Cut To Mushrooms, pp. 86-87

Faith Mushrooms Into Faitfulness

As Frodo is in the midst of this inner-dialogue he looked over to Sam only to discover that Sam was watching him. “I’m leaving the Shire as soon as ever I can,” he said. “Very good, sir!” Sam replied. Frodo understands that Sam has already included himself in that plan, and that he is indeed aware that it is very likely neither will ever come back.

‘If you don’t come back, sir, then I shan’t, that’s certain,’ said Sam. ‘Don’t you leave him! they said to me. Leave him! I said. I never mean to. I am going with him, if he climbs to the Moon; and if any of those Black Riders try to stop him, they’ll have Sam Gamgee to reckon with, I said.’

Ibid., p. 87

Sam Gamgee is illustrating to us what faith and faithfulness look like in the real world – even if that world is Middle-earth. The Elves seemed to know that Frodo is going away, and so they charged Sam to go with him and stay by his side; care for him. Sam does not know where that path (Paths! Refer to the the previous episode: Three Is Company) will lead. This is why he resorts to the hyperbolic, “to the Moon!”

Sam walks by faith, not by sight. Faith is of things hoped for a confidence, of matters not seen a conviction (Heb. 11:1 YLT). Faith mushrooms into faithfulness; and this is visible, as the apostle John wrote to Gaius:

Dear friend, you are being faithful to God when you care for the traveling teachers who pass through, even though they are strangers to you. They have told the church here of your loving friendship. Please continue providing for such teachers in a manner that pleases God.

3 John 1:5-6 NLT

A Short Cut To Mushrooms

This shortcut leads to Bamfulong, the home of old Farmer Maggot – another terror of Frodo Baggins. It turns out to be a delightful little adventure which we wish had been included in the Peter Jackson films. Farmer Maggot is a warm, open, kind, and giving person – unless, of course, you are pilfering his mushrooms! And Frodo regrets never having known this of him:

I’ve been in terror of you and your dogs for over thirty years, Farmer Maggot, though you may laugh to hear it. It’s a pity: for I’ve missed a good friend.

On The Secret Fire Podcast we travel chapter-by-chapter and book-by-book through J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth viewing it through Christian lenses. We invite you to join us each week as we continue the adventure on the Arkenstone server in Lord Of The Rings Online. We meet at the Three Farthing Stone in the Shire.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/short-cut-to-mushrooms/feed/0In A Short Cut To Mushrooms Frodo’s desire to evade the Black Riders leads he and his companions directly to another danger: Farmer Maggot! All the while Samwise Gamgee illustrates faith and faithfulness in this chapter of J.R.R.In A Short Cut To Mushrooms Frodo’s desire to evade the Black Riders leads he and his companions directly to another danger: Farmer Maggot! All the while Samwise Gamgee illustrates faith and faithfulness in this chapter of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord Of The Rings. Short Cuts Make Long Delays The morning after their encounter with […]GCTNetworkTwo Reasons Why Christians Should Watch K-PAX Starring Kevin Spaceyhttp://gctnetwork.com/why-christians-should-watch-k-pax/
http://gctnetwork.com/why-christians-should-watch-k-pax/#respondWed, 15 Feb 2017 20:20:04 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4220On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we eat a banana with the peel and look for Christian themes in K-PAX. What spiritual gifts does Prot bring to the people of Earth? How does Dr. Mark Powell receive his gift of faith? For your convenience you will find each podcast segment at the time […]

On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we eat a banana with the peel and look for Christian themes in K-PAX. What spiritual gifts does Prot bring to the people of Earth? How does Dr. Mark Powell receive his gift of faith?

For your convenience you will find each podcast segment at the time referenced below:

Key Texts While Watching K-PAX

Michael and Brenden give you two reasons why Christians should watch K-PAX, starring Kevin Spacey and Jeff Bridges. The following passages can be used when talking to friends and family about the Christian themes in this film.

John 6:28-29 NASB

Therefore they said to Him, “What shall we do, so that we may work the works of God?” Jesus answered and said to them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent.”

John 21:15-17 NLT

After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”
“Yes, Lord,” Peter replied, “you know I love you.”
“Then feed my lambs,” Jesus told him.
Jesus repeated the question: “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
“Yes, Lord,” Peter said, “you know I love you.”
“Then take care of my sheep,” Jesus said.
A third time he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep.

For complete show notes and other episodes of FCC visit the Finding Christ In Cinema website.

Click on the audio player at the top of the post to listen to this episode, or use the links below for other ways to hear Finding Christ In Cinema podcast.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/why-christians-should-watch-k-pax/feed/0On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we eat a banana with the peel and look for Christian themes in K-PAX. What spiritual gifts does Prot bring to the people of Earth? How does Dr. Mark Powell receive his gift of faith?On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we eat a banana with the peel and look for Christian themes in K-PAX. What spiritual gifts does Prot bring to the people of Earth? How does Dr. Mark Powell receive his gift of faith? For your convenience you will find each podcast segment at the time […]GCTNetwork56:28Three Is Company, The Lord Of The Rings | SFP004http://gctnetwork.com/three-is-company/
http://gctnetwork.com/three-is-company/#commentsTue, 14 Feb 2017 11:05:50 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4212Bilbo told Frodo that the path from Bag End goes through Mirkwood to the Lonely Mountain and even further to worse places. Perhaps, even, to Mordor. Are there roads that lead to another door? On this episode we examine the third chapter of The Lord Of The Rings and see what we can learn from […]

Bilbo told Frodo that the path from Bag End goes through Mirkwood to the Lonely Mountain and even further to worse places. Perhaps, even, to Mordor. Are there roads that lead to another door? On this episode we examine the third chapter of The Lord Of The Rings and see what we can learn from Three Is Company.

Covered In The Dust Of Bilbo Baggins

It has been two or three weeks since Frodo made the decision to leave the Shire with the ring, but he had made no sign of getting ready to go. Gandalf, noticing this, tells him that he ought to go both quietly and soon. Frodo hesitates but has an idea:

‘What about the autumn, on or after Our Birthday?’ asked Frodo. ‘I think I could probably make some arrangements by then.’

The Lord of the Rings, Three Is Company, p. 65

Though he was indeed reluctant to leave, it was following after Bilbo which was uppermost in Frodo’s mind. Only this thought made leaving Bag End tolerable. The old hobbit was his family, friend, teacher, and guide. Frodo learned every wonderful thing he knew from Bilbo. He followed Bilbo so closely that he was – figuratively, if not literally – covered in his dust. That is the relationship of a disciple to a teacher: he or she follows in their footsteps so closely that the dust from the road is kicked up and lands on the disciple.

This is how the world can identify a disciple. Who’s dust are you covered in?

Home Looks Better When You’re About To Leave

Of course, following a trusted teacher and guide necessitates a path; the path from the door of Bag End joins other paths that feed into a larger road as tributaries do to a river, just as Bilbo would often say after a walk:

“Do you realize that this is the very path that goes through Mirkwood, and that if you let it, it might take you to the Lonely Mountain or even further and to worse places?”

Ibid., p. 74

Aren’t all stories about paths? They are about the paths taken and choices made. We all must take a path. There is no avoiding it. To chose not to take a path is in itself taking a path. Frodo, though reluctant, choses to follow the path set before him. He doesn’t know exactly what he’ll meet along the way, but he knows that there is danger on this path; it could lead all the way to Mordor!

On the night Jesus was betrayed, while in the upper room, he was preparing his disciples for what was on the very cusp of happening: he would be turned over to the Jewish authorities by one of them, Peter would deny even knowing him, and he was going where they could not yet follow. They could not follow their beloved teacher? Why, this is terrible! Jesus offered them words of reassurance:

“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know the way to where I am going.”

“No, we don’t know, Lord,” Thomas said. “We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?”

Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.”

John 14:1-6 NLT

Jesus is the way. He is the path that leads past Mordor.

Three Is Company

Frodo does not have to travel this path alone! Sam Gamgee and Peregrin Took are happy to walk with him and to help carry part of his load. Or in the case of Sam, to even carry much of his load. He will not allow Frodo carry that burden by himself. This is indeed a forward to things further down this road that Frodo is travelling. It is also a picture of the church – which was originally called the Way. I prefer to call it the Way because of the very lessons we have gleaned from Three Is Company, a fantastic chapter in The Lord Of The Rings.

What stood out to you in THREE IS COMPANY? Let us know in the comments below.

On The Secret Fire Podcast we travel chapter-by-chapter and book-by-book through J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth viewing it through Christian lenses. We invite you to join us each week as we continue the adventure on the Arkenstone server in Lord Of The Rings Online. We meet at the Three Farthing Stone in the Shire.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/three-is-company/feed/1Bilbo told Frodo that the path from Bag End goes through Mirkwood to the Lonely Mountain and even further to worse places. Perhaps, even, to Mordor. Are there roads that lead to another door? On this episode we examine the third chapter of The Lord Of ...Bilbo told Frodo that the path from Bag End goes through Mirkwood to the Lonely Mountain and even further to worse places. Perhaps, even, to Mordor. Are there roads that lead to another door? On this episode we examine the third chapter of The Lord Of The Rings and see what we can learn from […]GCTNetworkSecular Humanismhttp://gctnetwork.com/secular-humanism/
http://gctnetwork.com/secular-humanism/#respondWed, 08 Feb 2017 18:07:58 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4208One of the biggest moves away from Christianity over the past few years has been to reject faith in God but still hold to love, service, and morality. How do we deal with secular humanism and those who embrace it? Secular Humanism Today we tackle the exodus from Christianity towards a simpler humanism approach that […]

One of the biggest moves away from Christianity over the past few years has been to reject faith in God but still hold to love, service, and morality. How do we deal with secular humanism and those who embrace it?

Secular Humanism

Today we tackle the exodus from Christianity towards a simpler humanism approach that is gaining support on college campuses all across the nation. What is secular humanism? How does it differ from the humanitarian aspects of Christianity? Why is this so attractive to the disenfranchised youth?

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/secular-humanism/feed/0One of the biggest moves away from Christianity over the past few years has been to reject faith in God but still hold to love, service, and morality. How do we deal with secular humanism and those who embrace it?One of the biggest moves away from Christianity over the past few years has been to reject faith in God but still hold to love, service, and morality. How do we deal with secular humanism and those who embrace it?GCTNetwork1:07:24Christian Themes In TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD Starring Gregory Peckhttp://gctnetwork.com/christian-themes-to-kill-a-mockingbird/
http://gctnetwork.com/christian-themes-to-kill-a-mockingbird/#respondWed, 08 Feb 2017 18:00:15 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4204On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we take the trolley to Maycomb, Georgia and look for Christian themes in TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. How does Atticus Finch demonstrate the Mind of Christ? Why does the diverse community respect him so? For your convenience you will find each podcast segment at the time referenced […]

On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we take the trolley to Maycomb, Georgia and look for Christian themes in TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. How does Atticus Finch demonstrate the Mind of Christ? Why does the diverse community respect him so?

For your convenience you will find each podcast segment at the time referenced below:

Key Verses To Remember While Watching To Kill A Mockingbird

Philippians 2:1-5 NLT

Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.
Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.
You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.

1 Peter 2:17 AMP

Show respect for all people [treat them honorably], love the brotherhood [of believers], fear God, honor the king.

Proverbs 22:1 NLT

Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold.

In Finding Christ In Cinema we dig deeper into the silver-screen classics of yesteryear as well as the box-office hits of today. We take a closer look at the stories they tell and see if we find the face of Jesus looking back. Together we explore the deeper meanings of these films; their plots and their twists; the characters and their choices; and see how we can relate them to the gospel of salvation and ultimately our Christian walk.

For complete show notes and other episodes of FCC visit the Finding Christ In Cinema website.

Click on the audio player at the top of the post to listen to this episode, or use the links below for other ways to hear Finding Christ In Cinema podcast.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/christian-themes-to-kill-a-mockingbird/feed/0On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we take the trolley to Maycomb, Georgia and look for Christian themes in TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. How does Atticus Finch demonstrate the Mind of Christ? Why does the diverse community respect him so?On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we take the trolley to Maycomb, Georgia and look for Christian themes in TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. How does Atticus Finch demonstrate the Mind of Christ? Why does the diverse community respect him so? For your convenience you will find each podcast segment at the time referenced […]GCTNetwork56:21Homileticshttp://gctnetwork.com/homiletics/
http://gctnetwork.com/homiletics/#respondWed, 08 Feb 2017 17:48:31 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4203Today we do a study on homiletics or how we should present God’s Word. Primarily we want to tackle the hot topic of Expository Preaching versus Topical Preaching. Homiletics Homiletics is a term that refers to the art and methods of publicly presenting the Bible and the doctrines therein. Preaching styles, etc. There are a […]

Today we do a study on homiletics or how we should present God’s Word. Primarily we want to tackle the hot topic of Expository Preaching versus Topical Preaching.

Homiletics

Homiletics is a term that refers to the art and methods of publicly presenting the Bible and the doctrines therein. Preaching styles, etc. There are a lot of subtopics we could discuss on this. However today we want to address the common debate between expository preaching versus topical preaching.

The current trend, especially among seminarians, is to stick solely with expository preaching in lieu of topical preaching. Today we want to address as to whether or not this is throwing the baby out with the bath wash.

Is topical preaching inherently bad? Are there times when expository preaching can actually be a hindrance to discipling a congregation? Join us as we discuss the pros and cons of each style and what the real issues should be in determining what is preached and how.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/homiletics/feed/0Today we do a study on homiletics or how we should present God’s Word. Primarily we want to tackle the hot topic of Expository Preaching versus Topical Preaching. Homiletics Homiletics is a term that refers to the art and methods of publicly presenting...Today we do a study on homiletics or how we should present God's Word. Primarily we want to tackle the hot topic of Expository Preaching versus Topical Preaching.GCTNetwork1:02:04The Shadow Of The Past, The Lord Of The Rings | SFP003http://gctnetwork.com/shadow-of-the-past/
http://gctnetwork.com/shadow-of-the-past/#respondTue, 07 Feb 2017 11:05:08 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4191It has been seventeen years since Bilbo Baggins left the Shire. Now Frodo must face The Shadow Of The Past and decide what to do with the time given him. How will Gandalf and Sam Gamgee help bear this burden? Join us as we explore J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord Of The Rings. The Shadow Of The Past: Controlling […]

It has been seventeen years since Bilbo Baggins left the Shire. Now Frodo must face The Shadow Of The Past and decide what to do with the time given him. How will Gandalf and Sam Gamgee help bear this burden? Join us as we explore J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord Of The Rings.

The Shadow Of The Past: Controlling Rings And Controlling Themes

If the first chapter of The Lord Of The Rings acted as the passing of the baton between Bilbo and Frodo, this chapter – The Shadow Of The Past – acts as an advanced course of the history of the One Ring and how it has come to Frodo Baggins. From the War Of The Last Alliance to Sméagol’s murder of Déagol, and the singular event which Sauron could never have anticipated: the One Ring ends up in the hands of the most unlikely creature of all, Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit of the Shire.

Has Some Power Chosen Frodo For Just Such A Time As This?

Gandalf is clear: besides Sauron, some Other power is orchestrating events in Middle-earth:

Behind that there was something else at work, beyond any design of the Ring-maker. I can put it no plainer than by saying that Bilbo was meant to find the Ring, and not by its maker.

– The Lord Of The Rings, Fellowship Of The Ring, The Shadow Of The Past, p56

When discussing the history unfolding in Middle-earth – which stretches all the way back to the song of the Ainur, by whom Ilúvatar created all of Eä – Kent Bruner and Jim Ware follow Gandalf’s plain statement backward to the very beginning:

And so Ilúvatar, after the pattern of the biblical Jehovah, produces a drama performed in the theater of time. Its story will become the visible expression of the Ainur’s chorus, including the song of a simple hobbit and the discord of an evil rebel. And somehow, the former will resolve the latter.

Queen Esther And The King’s Decree

After hearing this terrible tale Frodo has but one thought: he wishes that this ring had never come to him. And Gandalf sympathizes. Neither would have chosen this, but the wizard tells Frodo plainly that all that matters now is what he choses to do. The Old Testament story of Esther must have been an influence on J.R.R. Tolkien, a devout Catholic.

The parallels are uncanny: terrible things are progressing to the slaughter of countless Jews, and one person is in the right place at the right time to carry a burden on behalf of others. Queen Esther knows that it could cost her her life if she approaches the king unbidden. Her cousin Mordecai wrote her the following in response to her objections:

“Don’t think for a moment that because you’re in the palace you will escape when all other Jews are killed. If you keep quiet at a time like this, deliverance and relief for the Jews will arise from some other place, but you and your relatives will die. Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for just such a time as this?”Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: “Go and gather together all the Jews of Susa and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. My maids and I will do the same. And then, though it is against the law, I will go in to see the king. If I must die, I must die.”

– Esther 4:13-16 NLT

Just like Esther, Frodo decides to do the hard thing. And thus the controlling theme takes over: he will leave the Shire and bear the burden of the ring for the benefit and love of others, whatever it may cost him.

What stood out to you in the The Shadow Of The Past? Let us know in the comments below.

On The Secret Fire Podcast we travel chapter-by-chapter and book-by-book through J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth viewing it through Christian lenses. We invite you to join us each week as we continue the adventure on the Arkenstone server in Lord Of The Rings Online. We meet at the Three Farthing Stone in the Shire.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/shadow-of-the-past/feed/0It has been seventeen years since Bilbo Baggins left the Shire. Now Frodo must face The Shadow Of The Past and decide what to do with the time given him. How will Gandalf and Sam Gamgee help bear this burden? Join us as we explore J.R.R.It has been seventeen years since Bilbo Baggins left the Shire. Now Frodo must face The Shadow Of The Past and decide what to do with the time given him. How will Gandalf and Sam Gamgee help bear this burden? Join us as we explore J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord Of The Rings. The Shadow Of The Past: Controlling […]GCTNetworkA Long Expected Party, The Lord Of The Rings | SFP002http://gctnetwork.com/a-long-expected-party/
http://gctnetwork.com/a-long-expected-party/#respondTue, 31 Jan 2017 11:15:04 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4179Bilbo Baggins is celebrating his eleventy-first birthday by throwing a long expected party. Gandalf the Grey will be there with plenty of spectacle because the most important thing in Middle-earth is about to take place. We’ll explore that on this episode of The Secret Fire Podcast. A Long Expected Party Eleventy-one years is quite a […]

Bilbo Baggins is celebrating his eleventy-first birthday by throwing a long expected party. Gandalf the Grey will be there with plenty of spectacle because the most important thing in Middle-earth is about to take place. We’ll explore that on this episode of The Secret Fire Podcast.

A Long Expected Party

Eleventy-one years is quite a respectable age for hobbits. After all the Old Took only reached the age of one-hundred and thirty. Also, his nephew (technically his cousin) Frodo was to celebrate his own thirty-third birthday – his coming of age – on that same day, September 22. Naturally, this was cause for much celebration, and the wizard Gandalf wouldn’t miss it for anything in Middle-earth.

Though he wasn’t sure why, Gandalf the Grey knew that this was the most important place for the servant of the Secret Fire to be. Bilbo was using the occasion of this long expected party to leave Bag End and everything else to his adopted heir and to go on a permanent adventure. Everything including his magic ring. Gandalf was there to ensure that said ring did, in fact, pass from Bilbo’s possession.

Bilbo Must Decrease, Frodo Must Increase

Like Christian in Pilgrim’s Progress Bilbo Baggins carries a burden that he cannot quite identify (Pro Tip: we will draw parallels to John Bunyan’s magnum opus often on this show). He confesses suspicions about the ring to Gandalf after his uncharacteristic outburst:

“It has been so growing on my mind lately. Sometimes I have felt it was like an eye looking at me. And I am always wanting to put it on and disappear…”

The wizard encourages him to stop possessing it, leave the ring behind, and break free of its hold.

Bilbo’s part in the story of the ring is at an end, but he does not want to step out of the starring role. That is exactly why Gandalf is present at this exact time (chronos) and place. It is time (kairos) for Bilbo to stop possessing the ring. And it is time (kairos) for the ring to stop possessing Bilbo Baggins. It is time (kairos) for Frodo to continue the story of the ring; it is Frodo’s time (kairos) to bear the burden.

A Long Expected Party was the event which signaled this fact: Bilbo must decrease, but Frodo must increase. Each has a role in this drama, but it is all for the glory of someone greater. In Middle-earth that One is Eru Ilúvatar.

The Party Tree is a great place to gather for festivities and merriment in The Lord Of The Rings Online.

Join Us On An Adventure

Next week: The Shadow Of The Past.

On The Secret Fire Podcast we travel chapter-by-chapter and book-by-book through J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth viewing it through Christian lenses. We invite you to join us each week as we continue the adventure on the Arkenstone server in Lord Of The Rings Online. We meet at the Three Farthing Stone in the Shire.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/a-long-expected-party/feed/0Bilbo Baggins is celebrating his eleventy-first birthday by throwing a long expected party. Gandalf the Grey will be there with plenty of spectacle because the most important thing in Middle-earth is about to take place.Bilbo Baggins is celebrating his eleventy-first birthday by throwing a long expected party. Gandalf the Grey will be there with plenty of spectacle because the most important thing in Middle-earth is about to take place. We’ll explore that on this episode of The Secret Fire Podcast. A Long Expected Party Eleventy-one years is quite a […]GCTNetworkUncovering Biblical Themes In O BROTHER, WHERE ART THOU?http://gctnetwork.com/biblical-themes-o-brother-where-art-thou/
http://gctnetwork.com/biblical-themes-o-brother-where-art-thou/#respondThu, 26 Jan 2017 18:36:01 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4175On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we join Ulysses Everett McGill on his quest and look for Christian themes in O BROTHER WHERE ART THOU. What is the true treasure that Everett, Pete, and Delmar are looking for? Will Everett really find his treasure, or is he too busy insulting God? For your […]

On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we join Ulysses Everett McGill on his quest and look for Christian themes in O BROTHER WHERE ART THOU. What is the true treasure that Everett, Pete, and Delmar are looking for? Will Everett really find his treasure, or is he too busy insulting God?

For your convenience you will find each podcast segment at the time referenced below:

Key Texts For O Brother Where Art Thou

Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

– Matthew 6:19-21 ESV

No wisdom, no understanding, no counsel, can avail against the Lord.

– Proverbs 21:30 NRSV

In Finding Christ In Cinema we dig deeper into the silver-screen classics of yesteryear as well as the box-office hits of today. We take a closer look at the stories they tell and see if we find the face of Jesus looking back. Together we explore the deeper meanings of these films; their plots and their twists; the characters and their choices; and see how we can relate them to the gospel of salvation and ultimately our Christian walk.

For complete show notes and other episodes of FCC visit the Finding Christ In Cinema website.

Click on the audio player at the top of the post to listen to this episode, or use the links below for other ways to hear Finding Christ In Cinema podcast.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/biblical-themes-o-brother-where-art-thou/feed/0On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we join Ulysses Everett McGill on his quest and look for Christian themes in O BROTHER WHERE ART THOU. What is the true treasure that Everett, Pete, and Delmar are looking for?On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we join Ulysses Everett McGill on his quest and look for Christian themes in O BROTHER WHERE ART THOU. What is the true treasure that Everett, Pete, and Delmar are looking for? Will Everett really find his treasure, or is he too busy insulting God? For your […]GCTNetwork1:06:55The Good Samaritanhttp://gctnetwork.com/the-good-samaritan/
http://gctnetwork.com/the-good-samaritan/#respondTue, 24 Jan 2017 17:30:36 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4171This week we tackle the familiar parable of the Good Samaritan. Do you know who your neighbor is? The Good Samaritan We’ve all probably heard the story of the Good Samaritan given by Jesus. Today we will dive into the cultural and historic situations which led to the discussion. We will address the question Jesus […]

This week we tackle the familiar parable of the Good Samaritan. Do you know who your neighbor is?

The Good Samaritan

We’ve all probably heard the story of the Good Samaritan given by Jesus. Today we will dive into the cultural and historic situations which led to the discussion. We will address the question Jesus was posed which led to the story and how it relates to the Shema or what we often call, “the Greatest Commands”.

What were the reasons the lawyer posed the questions? Where and what was this road Jesus spoke of? Who were the famous players and what is a Samaritan anyway?

We’ll address all of these questions and more as we examine how the parable still applies to us in our modern day Christian lives today.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/the-good-samaritan/feed/0This week we tackle the familiar parable of the Good Samaritan. Do you know who your neighbor is? The Good Samaritan We’ve all probably heard the story of the Good Samaritan given by Jesus. Today we will dive into the cultural and historic situations w...This week we tackle the familiar parable of the Good Samaritan. Do you know who your neighbor is?GCTNetwork1:12:56Christian Themes In THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEYhttp://gctnetwork.com/christian-themes-an-unexpected-journey/
http://gctnetwork.com/christian-themes-an-unexpected-journey/#respondTue, 24 Jan 2017 13:40:47 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4166On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we pick up where we should have began in the first place with THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY. Who is the real Heretic in this story? How does Bilbo inspire the Dwarves to take on Azog? For your convenience you will find each podcast segment at the […]

On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we pick up where we should have began in the first place with THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY. Who is the real Heretic in this story? How does Bilbo inspire the Dwarves to take on Azog?

For your convenience you will find each podcast segment at the time referenced below:

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/christian-themes-an-unexpected-journey/feed/0On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we pick up where we should have began in the first place with THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY. Who is the real Heretic in this story? How does Bilbo inspire the Dwarves to take on Azog?On this episode of Finding Christ in Cinema, we pick up where we should have began in the first place with THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY. Who is the real Heretic in this story? How does Bilbo inspire the Dwarves to take on Azog? For your convenience you will find each podcast segment at the […]GCTNetwork1:23:05The Lord Of The Rings Prologue: Concerning Hobbits | SFP001http://gctnetwork.com/concerning-hobbits/
http://gctnetwork.com/concerning-hobbits/#respondMon, 23 Jan 2017 15:20:48 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4150On this episode we look at the prologue to The Lord Of The Rings and pay particular attention to the section titled Concerning Hobbits. What can we learn about Hobbits from this primer? What can we learn about ourselves? All that and much more on this episode of The Secret Fire Podcast. Prologue As A […]

On this episode we look at the prologue to The Lord Of The Rings and pay particular attention to the section titled Concerning Hobbits. What can we learn about Hobbits from this primer? What can we learn about ourselves? All that and much more on this episode of The Secret Fire Podcast.

Prologue As A Primer

A prologue serves as a means by which pertinent information is provided for the purpose of assisting the reader or audience to better understand the story that follows. It provides context and background information. Often these details are taken from earlier tales and serves as a vehicle to relate the old and new. The fancy seven-dollar word for this is intertextuality, and J.R.R. Tolkien is a master of this craft – as we see here.

Concerning Hobbits

The bulk of the prologue to The Lord Of The Rings is – to borrow from the text – concerning Hobbits. Readers loved The Hobbit. Tolkien’s publishers, Allen and Unwin, practically begged him to write a sequel. In fact Stanley Unwin wrote to the Professor in October, 1937 that a large public would be “clamoring next year to hear more from you about Hobbits!” Here was his response:

“I cannot think of anything more to say about hobbits. Mr Baggins seems to have exhibited so fully both the Took and the Baggins side of their nature.” – Letter 17

Thankfully, J.R.R. Tolkien’s muse came to him bearing bountiful gifts! What wonderful glimpses we get into the history of Hobbits in this prologue. And what a primer it is for the tale that follows it. We explore some of them on this episode of The Secret Fire Podcast in order to lean more concerning Hobbits.

Middle-earthly Good

One characteristic not only concerning Hobbits, but is concerning about them, is that they are – for lack of better word – isolationists. The ease and comforts enjoyed within the Shire dulled their concern about anything outside of it. In fact, as Tolkien wrote, “there in that pleasant corner of the world … they heeded less and less the world outside where dark things moved, until they came to think that peace and plenty were the rule in Middle-earth and the right of all sensible folk.”

In essence, the Hobbits of the Shire were hiding their lights under a basket. Their salt had lost its flavor. They were being no Middle-eartly good.

You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.

– Matthew 5:14-16 NRSV

But something is about to change. And that is the grand adventure we want you to have with us!

Sent To Burn At The Heart Of The World

On The Secret Fire Podcast we travel chapter-by-chapter and book-by-book through J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth viewing it through Christian lenses. We invite you to join us each week as we continue the adventure on the Arkenstone server in Lord Of The Rings Online. We meet at the Three Farthing Stone in the Shire.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/concerning-hobbits/feed/0On this episode we look at the prologue to The Lord Of The Rings and pay particular attention to the section titled Concerning Hobbits. What can we learn about Hobbits from this primer? What can we learn about ourselves?On this episode we look at the prologue to The Lord Of The Rings and pay particular attention to the section titled Concerning Hobbits. What can we learn about Hobbits from this primer? What can we learn about ourselves? All that and much more on this episode of The Secret Fire Podcast. Prologue As A […]GCTNetworkSecret Fire Sent To Burn At The Heart Of The World | SFP000http://gctnetwork.com/secret-fire-introduction/
http://gctnetwork.com/secret-fire-introduction/#commentsSun, 15 Jan 2017 22:31:37 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4127On this episode of The Secret Fire Podcast we’ll tell you what to expect from this new show where we will take a closer look at J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth through Christians lenses. We invite you to join us as servants of the Secret Fire – sent to burn at the heart of the world! What […]

On this episode of The Secret Fire Podcast we’ll tell you what to expect from this new show where we will take a closer look at J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth through Christians lenses. We invite you to join us as servants of the Secret Fire – sent to burn at the heart of the world!

What Is The Secret Fire?

In The Fellowship Of The Ring as Gandalf the Grey battles the terrible Balrog of Morgoth at the bridge of Khazud-dûm, he tells the foul creature, “I am a servant of the Secret Fire, wielder of the flame of Arnor. You cannot pass.” What is this Secret Fire, and is it mentioned anywhere else in Tolkien’s legendarium?

Indeed it is!

In The Silmarillion we have recorded in the first paragraph of Valaquenta this statement:

Therefore Ilúvatar gave to their vision Being, and set it amid the Void, and the Secret Fire was sent to burn at the heart of the World; and it was called Eä.

We see that the Secret Fire was sent by Ilúvatar (the One). It originates from him. And there is more that could be guessed about the Secret Fire, but we have the advantage of the Professor’s (Tolkien) own confession: In Tolkien and The Silmarillion, author Clyde S. Kilby recounts a time when, asked directly what the Secret Fire was, Tolkien confirmed that it is the Holy Spirit.

The Secret Fire sent to burn at the heart of the World – that same Flame Imperishable which Gandalf claimed fidelity and service to – was the Holy Spirit!

Brand New Show: The Secret Fire Podcast

We are so pleased to begin our long expected show, The Secret Fire Podcast. This has been in the works for quite some time. Michael and Brenden from Great Commission Transmission Network’s Finding Christ In Cinema podcast are joined by Michael’s son (and old podcasting partner) Micah for a weekly journey through Middle-earth. We will be going chapter-by-chapter, book-by-bookand taking it all in through Christian lenses.

We shall begin with The Lord Of The Rings and, Lord willing, continue on from there. In this introductory episode you get to meet the hosts and learn a bit about them and what they will bring to the round table each week, including:

Examining the craft of storytelling

Highlight favorite scenes, dialogue, and interactions in the story as it progresses

The Lord Of The Rings

Brenden has never read LOTR, but he wants to! Being a storyteller and Theater Arts Major will give him some unique insights as he finally reads this masterpiece. This in itself gave rise to the Secret Fire Podcast. What a great opportunity to experience the wonder of someone going on a journey with with Fellowship for the first time, and that someone with the education and background that Brenden has.

Next episode we will be taking a look at the prologue to The Lord Of The Rings. So read those 15 or so pages and be ready to join us here on the Secret Fire Podcast.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/secret-fire-introduction/feed/4On this episode of The Secret Fire Podcast we’ll tell you what to expect from this new show where we will take a closer look at J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth through Christians lenses. We invite you to join us as servants of the Secret Fire – sent to b...On this episode of The Secret Fire Podcast we’ll tell you what to expect from this new show where we will take a closer look at J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth through Christians lenses. We invite you to join us as servants of the Secret Fire – sent to burn at the heart of the world! What […]GCTNetworkMalachihttp://gctnetwork.com/malachi/
http://gctnetwork.com/malachi/#respondWed, 11 Jan 2017 13:15:13 +0000http://gctnetwork.com/?p=4123Today we do an expositional study of the book of Malachi. How can we relate to the chastisement of this messenger today? Malachi Who is this Malachi guy? Some say he’s a contemporary of Ezra or Nehemiah. Some say he is Ezra or Nehemiah because the word malachi just means “my messenger”. There is some […]

Today we do an expositional study of the book of Malachi. How can we relate to the chastisement of this messenger today?

Malachi

Who is this Malachi guy? Some say he’s a contemporary of Ezra or Nehemiah. Some say he is Ezra or Nehemiah because the word malachi just means “my messenger”. There is some discussion as to whether Malachi is a proper name or a descriptive term.

There is also some discussion about the date of the writing. Based on some clues within the writing a good estimate puts it around 450-460 BC. The mention of the temple at least suggests the writing occurred sometime after the completion of the 2nd temple. In most estimations, it is chronologically the last writing of the canon of the Old Testament.

The content of book primarily a warning against complacency and a lack of holy reverence for temple practices and service to God in general. The book culminates in a prophecy of judgment by fire to come upon those who fail to revere God properly.

In addition, the book prophecies the coming of another messenger later revealed to be John The Baptist. A cursory study of the teachings of John the Baptist actual reveals a lot of parallels to the book of Malachi including a warning of judgment against the nation.

]]>http://gctnetwork.com/malachi/feed/0Today we do an expositional study of the book of Malachi. How can we relate to the chastisement of this messenger today? Malachi Who is this Malachi guy? Some say he’s a contemporary of Ezra or Nehemiah. Some say he is Ezra or Nehemiah because the word...Today we do an expositional study of the book of Malachi. How can we relate to the chastisement of this messenger today?GCTNetwork1:13:15